Description KSU Benson is an early-season pawpaw developed through the Kentucky State University breeding program with a focus on consistent eating quality and dependable orchard performance. At full ripeness, the fruit develops smooth, custard-like flesh with a rich tropical sweetness. The texture softens evenly and remains cohesive rather than runny, making the fruit easy to enjoy fresh or scoop for pulp. Benson ripens early within pawpaw varieties, providing a dependable start to the season before later cultivars come on. It’s a practical choice for growers building a planting around predictable timing and usable fruit quality. Overview Early-ripening pawpaw selected for consistent eating quality Smooth, custard-like texture with even softening Rich tropical flavor that remains balanced Moderate fruit size with steady production Requires cross-pollination for reliable fruit set Growing Details Latin Name: Asimina triloba ’KSU Benson’Site and Soil: 1/2 day to full day of sun; well-drained soilChill Requirement: Not typically expressed in chill hours for pawpaws; performs best in temperate regions with warm summersHardiness: USDA Zone 5–8Rootstock: Grafted onto pawpaw rootstockBearing Age: 3–5 years after plantingSize at Maturity: Typically 15–25 ft tall and wide; can be maintained smaller with pruningBloom Time: Mid-springRipening Time: Early within pawpaw varieties; late summer into early fall (varies by region)Fruit Weight: More commonly ~5–8 oz per fruit; occasionally larger under light crop load (varies by site and season)Seed Content: Approximately ~7% by weight (varies by season)Texture Class: Creamy custard (smooth, evenly soft at ripeness)Pollination: Pollination required; plant a genetically distinct pawpaw variety within 20–30 feetPests & Diseases: Generally low disease pressure with good airflow and moisture managementYield: Consistent and reliable once established Additional Notes Grower’s Insight: Benson is valued for starting the pawpaw season with steady quality and predictable ripening. Regional Insight: In cooler summer regions such as the Puget Sound, planting in full sun supports stronger growth and earlier ripening. Allow fruit to fully soften before use; underripe fruit will not develop full texture or flavor. Fruit is delicate and highly perishable—plan to use or process shortly after harvest. Explore more pawpaw varieties in our collection: Pawpaw Trees
