Key Points
- Provenance: Selected by John Gordon in 1982 from the original G.A. Zimmerman seed collection, representing some of the oldest high-quality genetics in the US improve program.
- Fruit Architecture: Produces attractively large fruits (170–230 g) that develop a beautiful golden skin hue as they reach peak ripeness.
- Flesh Quality: Noted for its deeply colored yellow pulp that maintains a dense yet creamy "Custard-Style" consistency.
- Efficiency: Exhibits an exceptionally low seed-to-pulp ratio (≈9%), providing a higher percentage of edible fruit than many wild-type selections.
- Seasonality: A mid-to-late season ripener (late September in NY; mid-September further south), fitting ideally into the main harvest window.
- Yield Dynamics: Highly productive; a mature tree can yield a significant annual crop (est. 15–20 kg) under proper management.
- Morphology: Displays a balanced, medium-sized growth habit (3–4 m), making it an excellent candidate for space-restricted home orchards.
- Utility: Primarily favored for fresh gourmet consumption and high-end culinary processing due to its stable sugar levels.
Variety Description
Summary
SAA-Zimmerman is the "Gourmet's Legacy." Discovered in the early 1980s among the historical seeds of G.A. Zimmerman, it bridges the gap between the wild origins of the species and the meticulous selection work of the late 20th century. It is a variety for the enthusiast who wants the "classic" high-sugar pawpaw experience—rich, dense, and tropical—housed in a sturdy, manageable tree frame.
Foundations and Provenance
Isolated in Amherst, NY, this selection was chosen by John Gordon for its ability to produce consistent, high-quality fruit in the northern United States. The "SAA" prefix (Selective Association of Amherst) denotes Gordon's top-tier selections, and Zimmerman has long been recognized as one of the standout performers in this group.
Fruit Specifications: Golden and Syrupy
Physical Attributes: The fruit is visually appealing, transitioning to a yellow-green skin as it softs. The size is consistent, making it predictable for kitchen use. Palette: This variety is celebrated for a "high-intensity" flavor. It delivers a syrup-like sweetness with complex tropical notes that are entirely free of bitterness. Texture: The pulp is notably smooth. There is virtually no fiber, allowing for a pure, buttery experience that is often compared to the finest modern hybrids.
Orchard Productivity
Efficiency: SAA-Zimmerman is valued for its "bang-for-your-buck" meat content. With a very low seed percentage, you get more edible fruit per pound than almost any wild selection. Growth Habit: The tree stays relatively compact (3-4 meters), which is a major advantage for home gardeners who want easy access for picking and pruning without large ladders.
Management and Logistics
Maturity Timing: Ripening in late September ensures the fruit avoids the risk of very early frost while still capturing maximum autumn heat for sugar development. Pollination Strategy: While productive, it thrives best when paired with other mid-season varieties like Allegheny or PA-Golden 3 to ensure a heavy, reliable fruit set.
Environmental Adaptation
Highly resilient in USDA Zones 5-8. Its historical origins in New York ensure it can handle volatile spring weather and cold winters with the grace expected of a premier heritage selection.
Conclusion
SAA-Zimmerman is for the grower who wants "Dessert Grade" quality from a tree with deep historical roots. It provides the size, the ultra-low seed count, and the sophisticated flavor profile that define the upper tier of the pawpaw world. It remains an essential variety for any orchardist dedicated to preserving and enjoying the absolute best of the American pawpaw tradition.
Breed Performance Summary
| Indicator | Cultivar Metric |
|---|---|
| Heritage Line | John Gordon Selection (G.A. Zimmerman Seed, 1982) |
| Average Fruit Mass | Large (≈170–230 g) |
| Seed Percentage | Exceptionally Low (≈9%) |
| Flavor Class | Gourmet-Sweet / Sophisticated Tropical |
| Flesh consistency | Dense Custard / Deep-Yellow |
| Maturity window | Mid-to-Late Season (September) |
| Hardiness Grade | Superior Northern Resilience (USDA 5-8) |
| Mature Yield Est. | 15–20 kg per tree annually |