Description
The Pawpaw Seedling (Asimina triloba) is a unique North American native fruit tree, prized for its exotic, mango-like fruit, lush foliage, and adaptability. Often called the “forgotten fruit” of the U.S., pawpaws produce creamy, sweet, banana-mango flavored fruit in late summer to early fall, making them a must-have for fruit enthusiasts and permaculture gardens.
This deciduous, understory tree grows 15-30 feet, thriving in full sun to partial shade and preferring moist, well-drained soil. Its large, tropical-looking leaves provide dense shade in summer, while its deep maroon, bell-shaped flowers in spring attract pollinators like beetles and flies. In fall, the foliage turns a brilliant golden-yellow, adding seasonal beauty.
Because pawpaw trees are not self-pollinating, planting multiple seedlings increases fruit production. As a cold-hardy and low-maintenance tree, pawpaws are ideal for food forests, woodland edges, and backyard orchards. With their unusual fruit and striking form, pawpaw trees are both ornamental and highly productive.