Description KSU Chappell is a pawpaw grown for presence. From the size of the fruit to the richness of the flesh, it’s a cultivar that doesn’t feel restrained. When fully ripe, the fruit opens to a thick, custardy interior with tropical sweetness that leans toward banana, mango, and pineapple. There’s a lot of substance here—big scoops of smooth pulp with very little in the way of distraction when you cut it open. Chappell ripens mid-season within pawpaw varieties and brings a sense of abundance when it’s in its stride. For growers who want a pawpaw that feels substantial in the hand and indulgent on the spoon, this one delivers. Overview Named pawpaw cultivar selected for large, fleshy fruit Thick, custard-like texture with rich tropical flavor Mid-season within pawpaw varieties; late summer to early fall depending on region Strong pulp-to-seed balance Requires cross-pollination for consistent fruit set Growing Details Latin Name: Asimina triloba ’KSU Chappell’Site and Soil: 1/2 day to full day of sun; well-drained soilChill Requirement: Not typically expressed in chill hours for pawpaws; best performance in temperate regions with warm summersHardiness: USDA Zone 5–9Rootstock: 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: Mid-season within pawpaw varieties; late summer into early fall (varies by region)Fruit Weight: Up to ~16 oz (reported). More commonly ~8–12 oz per fruit (varies by site, crop load, and season)Seed Content: Approximately ~6% by weight (varies by season)Texture Class: Thick, custardy; dense and creamy at full ripenessPollination: Pollination required; plant a genetically distinct pawpaw within 20–30 feetPests & Diseases: Generally low disease pressure under good airflow and moisture managementYield: Good once established with proper pollination Additional Notes Grower’s Insight: Chappell is a variety that feels generous—big fruit, rich texture, and a lot of usable pulp when harvested at full softness. Regional Insight: In cool-summer regions like the Puget Sound, planting in as much sun as possible supports stronger growth and better fruit sizing. Harvest only when fruit is fully ripe; underripe pawpaws won’t develop their best texture or flavor. Fruit is delicate and highly perishable—handle gently and plan to use or process soon after harvest. Explore more pawpaw varieties in our collection: Pawpaw Trees
