Asimina triloba / Paw Paw

Asimina triloba produces the largest native fruit in the US. Known to have tropical flavors and textures like that of a banana or mango. The fruit doesn’t keep well off the tree, so it is not available commercially—in order to enjoy it, you must grow it! While they are self-fruiting, they prefer to grow in small groves and will produce more fruit if you have multiple trees.

It can grow either as a single stem tree or multi-stem shrub with a range of 10-30' tall and 10' wide. Preferring a shady under-story setting, but adapting to full sun conditions with age or assisted acclimation. Born with a sturdy tap root, be sure to plant your Paw Paw somewhere where it can establish uninterrupted. Large leaves create excellent shade and subtle maroon-purple flowers emerge in the spring that lead to oblong green fruit early fall. Moist to average soil is best.

Larval host to Eurytides marcellus and Dolba hyloeus. Attracts birds, butterflies, and small mammals. Relatively deer tolerant, but worth protecting with a cage when young.

Near Native, but can be found growing naturally in Fahnestock State Park.