The Story
Plant Bio
Asimina triloba, commonly known as the pawpaw, is a small deciduous tree native to North America known for its edible fruit and distinctive foliage. It typically grows in understory areas and produces fragrant flowers before the leaves fully emerge.
This species is unique for being the only temperate member of the custard apple family (Annonaceae) and its fruit, which has a tropical flavor reminiscent of bananas and mangos.
Uses & Benefits:
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
180 inches
Width
180 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Shade
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Regular, consistent moisture
Humidity
Moderate to high
Lifespan
30+ years
Native To
Eastern North America
Toxicity
Fruit is edible; seeds and skin are toxic
Bloom period
Late spring – Early summer
In flower about 2 months of the year
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select well-draining, slightly acidic soil for planting.
- Tuck seeds into the soil, covering lightly with 1 inch of soil.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Transplant seedlings outdoors after the last frost, typically in early spring.
- Mulch around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
- Prune lightly in late winter to shape and remove dead branches.
Pro Tip
Plant in a sheltered spot with full sun for best fruit production.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water consistently, especially during dry spells 🌱
- Prune dead or crossing branches in late winter
- Mulch annually to retain soil moisture
- Fertilize with a balanced organic fertilizer in early spring
Don't
- Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
- Don’t prune excessively during the growing season
- Refrain from planting in heavy clay soils without amendment
- Avoid fertilizing late in the season to prevent new growth that can be damaged
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Pawpaw questions
What zones can Pawpaw grow in?
Pawpaw is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Pawpaw deer resistant?
Yes — Pawpaw is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Pawpaw bloom?
Pawpaw typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Pawpaw need full sun?
Pawpaw does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Pawpaw with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.