National Pawpaw Day

Close-up of pawpaw fruit with vibrant yellow flesh, surrounded by green leaves, outdoors in a sunny orchard.. — National pawpaw day illustration

Get ready to dig your claws into a fascinating day because it's National Pawpaw Day!

When is Pawpaw Day?

It's national pawpaw day on the 17th September.

The Pawpaw Phenomenon

What comes to mind when you hear the word 'pawpaw'? A cute kitten pawing at yarn? Well, think again, my friend! National Pawpaw Day is all about celebrating the deliciously tropical pawpaw fruit, also known as the 'poor man's banana'.

The pawpaw is a fruit that grows on trees and is native to the United States! Yes, move over apples and oranges. This unique fruit is often forgotten but is adored by those who know its sweet secrets.

So, how did National Pawpaw Day find its way into the vast wilderness of the internet? It all started on September 17, 2020, when the pawpaw community banded together and flooded the web with 55 mentions of this remarkable day. Their passion for this underappreciated fruit was contagious, ultimately leading to the birth of National Pawpaw Day.

History behind the term 'Pawpaw'

1541

First Encounter with Pawpaw

In 1541, the Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto encountered a Native American tribe along the Mississippi River known as the Pawpaw people. The tribe received its name from the Pawpaw tree, which was an important part of their culture. The tree's fruit, also called the pawpaw, was a cherished food source for the tribe. The Europeans took note of this unique fruit and its name, marking the first known encounter with the term 'pawpaw'.

1736

John Bartram's Discovery

In 1736, the American botanist and explorer John Bartram came across the pawpaw tree during his travels in the southeastern United States. Impressed by its large, tropical-like leaves and sweet-smelling flowers, Bartram was fascinated by this unfamiliar species. He made detailed observations and collected specimens, introducing the pawpaw tree to the scientific community for further study. Bartram's work helped popularize the term 'pawpaw' among botanists and naturalists.

1806

Lewis and Clark's Encounter

During their famous expedition from 1804 to 1806, explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark encountered the pawpaw tree and its fruit while traveling through the American Midwest. The explorers noted the pawpaw's resemblance to a banana and its creamy texture and delicious flavor. They even remarked that the Native American tribes in the area used the pawpaw as a valuable food source. Clark specifically mentioned the term 'pawpaw' in his journal, further spreading its recognition.

1904

Pawpaw as a Culinary Delight

The pawpaw fruit gained popularity in the early 20th century when it caught the attention of horticulturists and home cooks. Its tropical flavor, custard-like texture, and unique taste made it a sought-after ingredient in various recipes. Cookbooks from the era began featuring pawpaw-based dishes, and the fruit found its way into pies, ice creams, preserves, and more. As people embraced the culinary possibilities of the pawpaw, the term gained wider recognition within the food community.

1990

Pawpaw in Pop Culture

In 1990, the band Grateful Dead released their final studio album titled 'Built to Last', which featured a song called 'Just a Little Light'. In one line of the song, the lead vocalist, Brent Mydland, sings, 'Sitting here collecting pawpaws, trying to get a meal.' This reference to pawpaws introduced the term to a new generation of music enthusiasts, further embedding it in popular culture. Today, 'pawpaw' continues to be recognized not only for its historical significance but also as a symbol of musical nostalgia.

Did you know?

Did you know that George Washington, the first President of the United States, was a big fan of pawpaw? In fact, he even planted them at his Mount Vernon estate!