Large fruit with excellent flavor, blooms later & ripens later than most. Few seeds. Sunflower Paw Paw is said to be somewhat self-fertile, but yield greatly increased with cross pollination. From Kansas.
ZONE: 5-8
POLLINATION/BLOOM TIME: Said to be self-fertile, with a later bloom than most varieties. Pollination by flies, beetles and others drawn by unusual and rank smell of pollen. Unique chocolate brown blooms.
RECOMMENDED GROWING AND CARE:
Full sun to light shade in hot areas, mildly acidic soil that drains well but stays moist. Young plants concentrate on root development for first few years; mulch heavily around roots to minimize competition from grass and weeds. Top dress with compost or manure yearly to keep soil rich. Needs 2,600 degree days; ~160 frost-free days. Long growing season. Summer prune for airflow and ease of harvest. Spur bearer. Watch for active suckering around base & prune, enclose with barrier or mow to keep grove from forming. Mid to late season ripening. Thin to 2 fruit per "hand" (bunch) to keep size up.
CHILL HOURS: 400 hours below 45F
DISEASE RESISTANCE: Very good.
SIZE AT MATURITY: 20' x 10'.
**Smaller sizes of paw paw plants transplant better, due to brittle taproot. DO NOT disturb root ball when planting. Prefers dappled shade for first few years.**
