Mahchikpi (Pawpaw)

What looks like a mango, tastes like a banana, and is native to the Eastern Woodlands? Mahchipki (Lenape) or Pawpaw! 

Mahchipki are the largest edible fruit native to North America. And their flavor is often compared to banana, mango, and pineapple. 

Mahchipki were central to Native American diets and eaten fresh and dried. Tribes used bark from Machipki trees to make ropes and string. And the seeds were ground into a powder to prevent lice. 

The Shawnee utilized a lunar calendar and called the September full moon Ha'siminikiisfwa, which translates to Pawpaw Moon. It indicated that Pawpaws were ripe for picking and that winter was approaching. 

We’re grateful for Mahchipki! This is a plant that NRFF will recognize and respect year round in our (forthcoming) public garden. 

Keep reading to learn about other plants native to the Delmarva region like Òxeataeyòk (Sunflower), Nènèskakw (Eastern Redbud), and Manoomin (Wild Rice).

*Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult a doctor before using this plant for a medical purpose. 

References: American Indian Health and Diet Project at the University of Kansas, National Park Service, Ladybird Johnson wildflower center, Kentucky State University Cooperative Extension Program, West Virginia Public Broadcasting