Edibles – Fruit – Pawpaw Tree

Pawpaw Tree 

Botanical name: asimina triloba 

Beginner friendly?: beginner friendly to grow but research is required for a safe harvest 

Average size at maturity: 30-40 ft in height with a 15-30 ft spread 

Hardy zone: zones 5-9 

Growth rate: grows 1-2 ft per year 

Foliage color: green, yellow 

Flower color: purple 

Bloom time:  spring blooms, summer harvest 

Pruning instructions: prune during dormancy in the spring to maintain desired shape and size 

Propagation methods: propagate by grafting 

Landscape use:  fruit garden, patio plant, privacy, borders 

Special features: deer resistant, cold-hardy, attracts wildlife 

Light needs: 6 hours of sun per day 

Watering instructions: allow the top 1-3 inches of soil dry out between watering sessions 

Fertilizing instructions : use a slow-release balanced organic fertilizer once a year in the early spring 

Best time to plant: spring, fall 

Best type of soil:  loam, sand 

Companion plants: witch hazel, basil, false indigo, pear tree 

Toxicity level: toxic for humans and pets, research is required for a safe harvest and ingestive experience 

Invasive species: no