Asimina triloba, pawpaw seedling

Asimina triloba

Variety description: A relative of the tropical Custard Apple, the large, pointed oval foliage of pawpaws contribute to their exotic appearance. Mango shaped greenish-brown fruit weigh between 4 oz and 1 lb, making this the largest fruit native to North America. Ripe fruit have soft, juicy flesh and taste like banana custard with notes of pineapple and mango. Very good for fresh eating or for use in baking. Larvae of the zebra swallowtail butterfly (Eurytides marcellus), feed exclusively on young leaves of pawpaws.

Cross pollination from two genetically distinct plants necessary for fruit to set. Trees should be planted no more than 20' apart to ensure good pollination.

Site requirements: Full sun location with evenly moist soil. Pawpaws will grow in the shade but fruit set will be poor.

Size at maturity: Trees can be maintained at about 15' tall. Pawpaws sucker readily.

Pests and diseases: None.

Hardiness: Native from New York west to southeastern Nebraska, and south to northern Florida and eastern Texas. Will grow in USDA zones 5-9.

Plant size: 2 year old seedling, about 18'' tall with a well developed root system.  

When we ship: SPRING 2025

Shipping restrictions: None.