Key Points
- Provenance: Selected by John Gordon in Amherst, NY, using genetic material from the George Slate and George Zimmerman collections.
- Fruit Metrics: Medium-sized fruits (avg. 110 g) with a reliable annual set.
- Production: Exceptionally high yield, frequently reaching 120+ fruits per tree in university trials (KSU).
- Seasonality: A primary "early-header"; matures in early-to-mid September, avoiding early autumn frosts.
- Architecture: A robust tree reaching 15-20 feet, with high resilience to cold stress (USDA Zones 5–8).
- Handling: Possesses a short shelf life; best suited for immediate consumption or local processing.
- Identification: Part of the PA-Golden series (numbers 1-4). Commercial stock is often sold simply as "PA-Golden," so numerical verification is recommended for serious collectors.
Variety Description
Summary
PA-Golden 1 represents a strategic choice for the "short-summer" grower. While it may lack the ethereal, melting texture of premium Peterson hybrids, it compensates with industrial-scale productivity and a rock-solid cold hardiness profile. It is a utility variety—one that puts a heavy crop on the table year after year, even in years where late springs and early frosts decimate more sensitive cultivars.
Foundations and Provenance
The "Pennsylvania Golden" series was developed by John Gordon, who sifted through the massive genetic legacies of mid-century collectors George Slate and George Zimmerman. PA-Golden 1 was specifically isolated for its ability to function in the harsh, unpredictable climates of Upstate New York, Pennsylvania, and Ontario. It is a survivor.
Fruit Specs: Texture and Flavor
Precision Analysis: At roughly 110 g, the fruits are manageable and numerous. Texture: The pulp is custardy but can lean towards a slightly "grainy" mouthfeel in less-than-ideal seasons. Palette: Tasters like Lee Reich have praised the series for its performance in northern conditions, though some southern-based growers note a mild bitter "after-twang." It is a variety that definitely performs best at the northern edge of its range.
Orchard Productivity
Volume: High. In Kentucky State University (KSU) variety trials, PA-Golden selections consistently rank near the top for total fruit count per tree. For the hobbyist wanting to maximize their harvest count, it is an unbeatable choice. Pollination: Matures early enough to serve as a vital pollen source for a wide range of mid-season varieties.
Management and Storage
Because the fruit has a rapid maturity cycle, it also possesses a relatively rapid decline post-harvest. It is not a commercial shipper. It is a "local" variety—meant to be eaten off the tree or processed into purees within days of picking.
Resilience
Stands up well to northern wind stress and demonstrates stable resistance to basic leaf spots. Its main defense is its speed; by finishing its fruit production early, it avoids the diseases and environmental stresses of the late autumn season.
Conclusion
PA-Golden 1 is a primary "filler" for a complete pawpaw orchard. It provides the early-season harvest and the security of a guaranteed crop, allowing the grower to take more risks with later, more sensitive gourmet selections.
Breed Performance Summary
| Indicator | Cultivar Metric |
|---|---|
| Cultivar Heritage | Gordon/Slate/Zimmerman Selection |
| Average Fruit Mass | Medium (≈110 g) |
| Yield Density | Elite (120+ fruits/tree) |
| Flavor Category | Sweet / Utility Grade |
| Maturity timing | Early (Early - Mid September) |
| Hardiness Limit | USDA Zone 5 (High Resilience) |
| Commercial Utility | Low (Short Shelf Life) / Best for Processing |