Asimina triloba - Deciduous,Edible Fruit/Nuts,Fruits - Common Pawpaw Page

Asimina triloba, also known as the Common Pawpaw, is a unique tropical-looking fruit native to the eastern United States and Canada. It holds the title of the largest edible fruit indigenous to the United States. The fruit is typically harvested in September through October and can be eaten raw or used for making preserves, pies, ice cream, and other sweet desserts. The tree produces droopy long leaves, providing a 'sleepy' aura to the summer landscape. Growing up to 30 ft in height, it is easy to cultivate from seed in the spring in an area with part shade and sun. This small deciduous tree belongs to the same plant family as the custard-apple, cherimoya, sweetsop, ylang-ylang, and soursop. The pawpaw is a patch-forming understory tree found in well-drained, deep, fertile bottom-land and hilly upland habitat. The fruit has a sweet, custardish flavor similar to banana, mango, and cantaloupe. Try growing the Common Pawpaw in your garden and enjoy a taste of uniquely American fruit!