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“Pawpaw Field Day” Sheds Light on Missouri’s State Fruit

MU Extension

It’s been called the Ozarks Banana, and it’s known for its yellow-green color and tropical taste.  And on September 20, locals will have a chance to learn more about the pawpaw fruit.

The fleshy inside of the oval-shaped pawpaw has anywhere from 10 to 14 seeds and it ripens in September and October here in the Ozarks.

Several varieties of pawpaws will be on display in Mount Vernon during the MU Extension’s “Pawpaw Field Day” on September 20 from 1:00 to 4:00, at the MU Research Building, located at 14548 State Rd H in Mount Vernon.

According to a press release from the MU Extension, the pawpaw can be used in bread, pudding, cookies, ice, cream, and milkshakes—in addition to being enjoyed as fresh fruit.

Josh Conaway is a graduate of Missouri State University with a B.A. in Political Science and an M.A. in International Affairs. He works as a news reporter and announcer at KSMU. His favorite part of the job is exploring the rich diversity of the Ozarks and meeting people with interesting stories to share. He has a passion for history and running.