Pawpaw Hybrid Genotypes (Asimina triloba (L.) Dunal) Cultivated in the Bucharest Area

Abstract

Pawpaw or Northern banana (Asimina triloba (L.) Dunal) is the only representative of the Annonaceae family that can be cultivated in temperate areas. The increasing demands from the consumers for this nearly unknown fruit with high nutraceutical potential require specific researches. The aim of this study is to present the fruits pomological characteristics for 23 genotypes analyzed, cultivated in the Bucharest area. For each genotype yield, fruit size, average number of seeds per fruit, average weight of seeds and seeds size were measured. Fruit biochemical analyses as dry matter, total soluble solids, ascorbic acid content, acidity, were done for several genotypes. Fruit quality evaluation through sensorial analyses was conducted for 13 genotypes. The most valuable genotypes from the Experimental field according to the analyses performed and the consumer’s preferences are taken in consideration for further research.