About OPGA
         Why Grow Pawpaws?       

The pawpaw has been growing in Ohio for thousands of years & is well suited to the soils & climate.

  • History shows that the native cultures that once thrived in our region farmed large plantations of pawpaws.

  • In 1916 the Journal of Heredity's contest for the best pawpaws named 5 of the top 10 from Ohio.

  • Existing stands of pawpaws are excellent areas to further develop into productive semi-wild orchards.

  • The remaining wild genetics in Ohio may hold several potential cultivars and important genetics that could lead to more improved cultivars.

  • The pawpaw is a nutritionally superior fruit, very high in protein, fat, minerals and amino acids.

  • The pawpaw biomass has potent chemicals which are used for anti-cancer drugs & organic pesticides.

  • Due to these powerful chemicals, livestock and wildlife tend to avoid grazing on the tree.

  • Pawpaws have a huge potential market in Ohio and surrounding states.

  • Juices, ice cream and many other nutritious and delicious products are possible.

  • Better Homes and Gardens voted the pawpaw the landscape tree of the year 2000.

     

    • Questions about O.P.G.A. or pawpaws?

    If you're still not convinced, read our FAQ

     

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       OPGA

     Established in 2000 to organize and advance the re-development of a pawpaw (Asimina triloba) industry in Ohio.

    1. Educate the general public to the many superior traits of the pawpaw.

    2. Work with governmental agencies, schools and organizations to develop a pawpaw industry plan.  

    3. Help preserve and study the existing wild pawpaw genetics in Ohio.

    4. Establish the pawpaw as the official state fruit of Ohio.   

    Mission: The Ohio Pawpaw Growers Association is a non-profit, 501(c)3, organization of pawpaw enthusiasts and pawpaw growers dedicated to educating and promoting the superior traits of the pawpaw, developing a pawpaw industry, marketing plan, and preserving and studying the wild pawpaw genetics in Ohio.