A Very Unusual Fruit: Discovering the Pawpaw

English | 日本語

 Good morning, everyone.

Overall view of the pawpaw tree

Today, I would like to introduce you to a very unusual fruit called pawpaw, which I found near the vegetable garden. This was the first time I had ever seen this fruit. At first, I thought it looked like a persimmon, but its shape seems more like an akebia fruit. The person who introduced it to me called it “poppoh,” so I suppose it has various names. In any case, it has a very interesting shape.

The fruits on the branches are not picked. Instead, only the fruits that have ripened and fallen to the ground are collected.

Pawpaw fruit growing on a branch

When I picked up the fruit, its skin felt very smooth. Some areas looked black, as if they were starting to rot. It also seemed as though soil bacteria were present on the surface. It would probably be better to wash it thoroughly and peel it before eating. It also seems to spoil very easily. Juice began to seep out where insects had damaged the fruit, and it had a very strong smell that is characteristic of pawpaw. It was not necessarily a bad smell, but when the smell filled the car, it was so strong that it made me feel nauseous. It reminded me of the air fresheners that used to be found in restrooms a long time ago.

Appearance of the pawpaw fruit

I immediately cut the pawpaw open. Its flesh was as soft as a durian. It seems that it would spoil quickly if it is not eaten right away. I can see why it would be difficult to sell this fruit in stores. I actually tasted it, and it had a flavor somewhat like mango and cheese. I didn't want another one; one was enough for me. I don't think I could eat very much of it. The smell was simply too strong for me (to a slight degree, it also reminded me of the smell of old-fashioned insecticide.).

Cross-section of the pawpaw fruit

This time, I introduced you to the very unusual pawpaw fruit I found near the vegetable garden.

Well, that's all for today!