Table 4. Traits to be Considered When Selecting Pawpaws
*The Pawpaw (Asimina triloba)
*Taxonomy
*Distribution
*Cultivars
*Propagation
*Enemies
*Miscellaneous
*Improvements
*Research Needs
*Table 1 - Descriptions for Species of Asimina Native to the United States Mainland
*Table 2 - Nomclature of Asimina Species
*Table 3 - Pawpaw Cultivars
*Table 4 - Traits to be Considered When Selecting Pawpaws
*Figure 1 - Distribution of Asimina triloba in the united States
*Figure 2 - Distribution of Asimina Species Native to Extreme Southeastern United States
*Figure 3 - Distribution of Asimina parviflora in the United States
*References
| Trait | What Should Be Considered As Good |
| Flesh Color | Orange |
| Fruit Size | 10 ounces (284 g) or more |
| Seediness | Seeds the size of a nickel (19 mm dia.) and less than 12 per fruit |
| Flavor & Quality of Flesh | This is a very subjective trait, but typically mild, sweet, smooth texture and no unpleasant aftertaste are desired. |
| Appearance | Skin relatively free from blemishes; fruit uniformly shaped. |
| Quality After Storage | Two to three weeks of refrigerated storage should not greatly reduce eating quality. |
| Time of Ripening | Fruit should ripen between mid-September and mid-October. Later ripening limits usefulness in the northern U.S., while earlier ripening does not take full advantage of the growing season. |
| Winter Hardiness | Plant should overwinter in zone 5. |