What it is
Pawpaw (Asimina triloba) is in the Annonaceae family. North America's largest native fruit — a custardy tropical-tasting treat. Needs two trees and patience.
How to grow it
It wants part shade when young, water it even, rich, and give it rich, moist, well-drained soil. Target a soil pH around 5.5–7.0. Space plants about 10–15 ft apart. Expect roughly 4–7 yr to bear. Hardy understory tree.
How it's used
Pawpaw is used: fresh, baked, frozen pulp.
🔎 How to identify it
- Large drooping tropical-looking leaves
- Maroon spring flowers
- Green mango-shaped fruit
Edibility
PartsRipe pulp (not seeds/skin)
UsesFresh, baked, frozen pulp
CautionSeeds and skin not for eating; some get a mild reaction.
🌤 Before you plant: check the live 7-day garden weather to time it right for frost and heat.
Part of the free Texas Roots plant database, compiled by Jordan Polasek from his greenhouse in El Campo, Texas. Free to read and share. If it helped, the best thanks is to grow something.