Paw Paw Tree (Asimina triloba)

Paw Paw Tree: Asimina triloba, or the paw paw tree, is an unfussy North American native species. It grows in various soil types and across most USDA growing zones. Unlike many fruiting trees, the tree performs well in shady or semi-shade locations.

Gardeners prize the tree for its good looks and the large, delicious fruit it bears. The tree displays large, emerald green leaves in the summertime, turning a bright yellow in the fall. The tree reaches approximately twenty feet high at maturity, making it a very manageable size for most.

The Striking Appearance of the Paw Paw Tree

The paw paw tree, although relatively small in stature, is big in style. It has a full, thick canopy and dark green, somewhat glossy leaves that sway gracefully from their stems.

This tree performs well in woodland or naturalized areas, as it will thrive in shaded or semi-shaded conditions. It will also tolerate several hours of sunshine daily–just keep an eye on the moisture.

This tree attracts birds, who find security in the dense leaves, butterflies, and other small mammals. A tree house offers an entire ecosystem that you'll enjoy watching.

Springtime brings on the six-petaled purple flowers. You can harvest paw paws sometime between the latest days of summer to early autumn.

Asimina triloba Creates an Interesting Fruit

Paw paw fruit is heavy and grows into an oval shape. Although the outside of the fruit resembles a tropical mango (and some folks mistakenly refer to it as such), they are entirely different species. The mango tree is tropical and grows only in sub-tropical and tropical climates. However, this tree grows in cool and moist USDA growing regions in the United States.

The green fruit ripens on the branches and is ready to harvest when they are slightly soft and emit a fruity aroma. Some compare the fruit's taste to a blend of banana and pineapple--it has a smooth, custard-like texture and does not stay fresh for long after picking.

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