Pawpaw Trees
Pawpaw Trees Buyer's Guide
Also called Indiana banana, American custard apple, banango
Pawpaw trees (Asimina triloba) are native to North America, growing wild in much of the eastern and Midwest portions of the United States. The foliage is the sole food source for the Zebra Swallowtail Caterpillar, and the butterflies are attracted to pawpaw trees as a result. Deer, on the other hand, are not interested in eating the leaves of pawpaw trees. The trees produce tropical-like fruit with unique and delicious vanilla or banana/mango flavors. The pawpaw is surprisingly uncommon despite its native status. A ripe pawpaw has a short shelf life, making it difficult to sell at farmer’s markets or grocery stores; and the trees are tricky to transplant because of their delicate feeder roots. When choosing pawpaw trees, look for varieties that are grown in containers like Stark® EZ Start® pots that will ensure a larger root mass for successful planting.
To ensure your growing success and satisfaction, there are a few things to consider when you buy a pawpaw tree.
Zone Compatibility
Your climate plays an important role in whether an pawpaw tree will produce fruit or even survive. Before ordering a tree, make sure its recommended hardiness zone range includes your area. Our pawpaw trees grow well in zones 4-8, which covers most of the country.
Proper Pollination
Pollination by a different variety is key to the success of pawpaw trees. Often, its absence is why trees produce poorly or don’t bear fruit. All of our pawpaw trees require the presence of a second pawpaw tree for proper fruit production.
Mature Tree Size
Make sure you pick the right size tree for your space. When our pawpaw trees mature, they will be 15-25’ tall and wide.
