NC 1 Pawpaw is a cold-hardy cultivar of Asimina triloba, the North American native fruit tree prized by growers in cool regions who want to succeed with this unusual tropical-tasting species. Hardy from zones 5 to 9, it ripens reliably by mid-September in Ontario and thrives where most other pawpaws struggle. This cultivar demands 2200 Growing Degree Days to produce its creamy, custard-like fruit, making it specifically suited to maritime and northern climates where traditional pawpaw varieties often fail to set reliable crops.
Partial Sun
Moderate
5-9
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Moderate
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NC 1 is engineered for cool-climate success, ripening dependably in regions most pawpaw growers avoid. The cultivar's ability to set fruit in shorter growing seasons without requiring extreme heat makes it genuinely rare among pawpaws. Hand pollination or strategic placement of decaying organic matter will draw native pollinators to boost fruit set, turning a quirky growing practice into an opportunity to engage deeply with how these unusual trees reproduce.
NC 1 Pawpaw fruit is eaten fresh, straight from the tree, where the creamy flesh can be scooped directly from the skin. The fruit can also be processed into preserves, smoothies, or baked goods, though its short shelf life and delicate texture make it primarily a fresh-eating fruit for home gardeners rather than a commercial crop.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Start pawpaw seeds indoors at a temperature range of 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Soak seeds for 24 hours before sowing to improve germination. Sow seeds 1 inch deep in seed-starting mix and maintain consistent moisture until germination. Harden off seedlings gradually before transplanting outdoors.
Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost date for your zone. NC 1 is hardy to zone 5, so frost risk is minimal once trees are established. Space trees at least 15 to 20 feet apart to allow for mature canopy spread. Plant in prepared soil rich in organic matter, setting the root collar at soil level.
Harvest NC 1 Pawpaw fruit in mid-September or when the skin yields slightly to gentle pressure and begins to darken. The fruit will naturally drop from the tree when fully ripe; check daily beneath mature trees and collect fallen fruit promptly. Ripe pawpaws are delicate and bruise easily, so handle them with care. The flesh should be creamy and yellow-orange inside when ready to eat.
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