Pawpaw tree care and growing guide –expert tips on these native fruit trees

Clusters of fresh American paw paw fruit hang in a paw paw tree on Roosevelt Island in Washington, D.C.

The pawpaw, Asimina triloba, is a fruit tree or large shrub that’s a member of the custard apple family. It makes a great addition to the backyard, both for its tasty and nutritious fruit and its ornamental qualities. 

Despite being recognised as the largest edible fruit native to North America, it has been a somewhat forgotten food. Currently, however, it’s enjoying a revival in fortunes as we re-examine our native plant heritage. There are new cultivars available and the number of pawpaw farmers is increasing.