NC 1 Paw Paw

Asimina triloba 'NC 1'

NC 1 is an early-ripening variety introduced by Doug Campbell from Ontario, Canada in 1976, where it is proven winter hardy. While the harvest is not as bountiful as other varieties, the quality of the fruit makes up for it! Large and flavorful, tasting strongly of banana with mango undertones and a refreshing melon aftertaste. Its high pulp-to-seed ratio and wonderfully dense flesh means more fruit on your spoon! Due to Northern heritage, chill hours will be on the high end of pawpaw's 400-800 range.

Great for cool region growers. Hand pollination will increase fruit set, alternatively, adding a small pile of decaying meat to the base of each tree just before blooms open will bring in the flies and beetles that pollinate these unusual trees. Shade from direct sun during first 2 summers - even mature trees may benefit from afternoon shade in hot climates. Also protect young trees from slug and snail damage. Requires 2200 Growing Degree Days (GDD).

Cold Hardy to USDA Zone: 5

Chill Hours Needed: Unverified; most require between 400-800 hours

Mature Height: 10'-15'

Sun: Full Sun to Part Shade in Hot Climates

Ripening Time: Early/Ripens Sept 15th in Ontario

Pollination: Need Different Variety as a Pollinizer

Click here to read our Pawpaw Growing Guide