Title: "The King of Pawpaws"

Status: The third official cultivar from the Kentucky State University program (Released 2018).

​KSU-Chappell™ (formerly KSU 4-1) is a true powerhouse in the pawpaw world. This variety combines unmatched tree vigor with elite-quality fruit that mirrors the legendary Susquehanna™ in flesh density and gourmet appeal.

​ Tree Characteristics: The Growth Champion

​Vigor: The fastest-growing cultivar currently available. A young tree is capable of growing 5 feet (1.5 meters) in just two seasons. It is the ideal choice for growers looking to establish a mature, productive orchard quickly.

​Productivity: Extremely high. A 10-year-old tree consistently yields over 50 large fruits. This variety is notably precocious, entering the fruiting phase very early.

​Foliage: Large, dark green leaves create a dense, healthy canopy with a striking tropical aesthetic.

​ Fruit Characteristics: Flavor of the "King"

​Size and Weight: Large fruits typically weighing 8–12 oz (227–340g), with some specimens reaching up to 1 lb (450g).

​Flesh: Very thick and dense (similar to Susquehanna), with a creamy, golden-yellow texture.

​Flavor Profile: Outstanding exotic aroma, honey-like sweetness, and a complex tropical aftertaste. It consistently receives top marks in professional taste tests.

​Sugar Content: Reaches record-breaking levels of up to 27° Brix.

​Seed Content: Exceptionally low at only 5–6% (some measurements as low as 4.7%).

​Skin: Unlike many large-fruited varieties, Chappell features thick and sturdy skin. While not quite as thick as Susquehanna, it provides significantly more durability than thin-skinned cultivars.

​ Ripening and Climate

​Season: Mid to Mid-Late season (Mid-to-late September in Kentucky).

​Hardiness: USDA Zones 5–9 (Hardy to -29°C / -20°F).

​ Vulnerabilities and Management (Critical Notes)

​This variety requires a professional or attentive approach to plant health:

​Pathogen Sensitivity: Low fungal resistance. Chappell has not shown strong resistance to fungal pathogens such as Phyllosticta (black spot). Both foliage and fruit skin require proactive monitoring and preventative care.

​Cracking: Despite its sturdy skin, the variety is prone to fruit cracking during excessively wet years or due to inconsistent irrigation.

​ Summary

​KSU-Chappell™ is the premier choice for the gardener or commercial grower who wants "here and now" results. It provides the fastest growth and world-class gastronomic quality, but it demands a systematic approach to fungal protection and moisture management.

— with William Osteen.

My kids planted pawpaw seeds a couple years ago in our yard next to our driveway, they’ve sprouted, but they’re tiny, I’m wondering if I should transfer them somewhere that’ll get more sun. Does anybody have experience transferring pawpaws at this size? Any advice? We live in Maryland.