Cultivar Reference › Sapotes & tropical fruit › Pawpaw 'KSU Chappell'
Pawpaw 'KSU Chappell'
Asimina triloba
Matt's 9b field note
“Kentucky State release — paired with the other pawpaw for pollination.”
Background
KSU Chappell (tested as KSU 4-1) is the third pawpaw cultivar released by Kentucky State University, the world's only full-time pawpaw research program, released in 2018. It was selected in 2001 from open-pollinated seed at KSU's Harold R. Benson Research Farm in Frankfort, Kentucky, from germplasm of unknown parentage.
Distinguishing traits
Large fruit (224-436 g) with low seed content (about 5.8% by weight), mild banana-pineapple flavor with floral notes, and high sugar (26.2 Brix); medium-firm creamy yellow-orange flesh. Noted as one of the most vigorous and productive pawpaw varieties; mid-season ripening.
Desert care — zone 9b
- Chill hours
- Needs roughly 400+ chill hours; gets plenty in Phoenix winters.
- Cold hardiness
- Hardy to zone 5 (about -20 to -25°F); cold is a non-issue in 9b.
- Heat tolerance
- Rated very good heat and sun tolerance by growers, but young trees need shade for the first 2 years and protection from intense afternoon sun; deep mulch and regular water are essential in Phoenix summers. Mature trees handle full desert sun better.
- Water
- Consistent moisture, especially the first 2 years; mature trees are moderately drought-tolerant but fruit better with regular deep watering.
- Soil
- Rich, well-drained, high-organic-matter soil; adaptable but dislikes waterlogging.
- Sun exposure
- Shade for the first 2 years, then full sun (6+ hours).
Where to buy
- Edible Landscaping
- One Green World
- Planting Justice