Pawpaw (Asimina triloba)

Also known as: Papaw, Fetid-bush

The state fruit of Ohio is the pawpaw (*Asimina triloba*), a small tree native to the eastern United States. The pawpaw is celebrated in American folk music and has inspired the names of various U.S. cities.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Pawpaw

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree, Shrub

Plant Height

11 m to 14 m

Spread

4.5 m to 9 m

Leaf Color

Green Yellow

Flower Size

3 cm to 5 cm

Flower Color

Purple Red Brown

Images of Pawpaw

Quickly Identify Pawpaw

Distinctive cinnamon-brown stem color with soft pubescent texture, lacking bud scales.

Oblong, pendulous leaves emitting green pepper odor, vibrant green upper surface, pale underside.

Bark transitions from smooth to rugged with scaly ridges, adorned with wart-like lenticels.

Burgundy flowers with foul odor, purplish-brown petals, blooming in spring.

Unique, custard-like fruit with greenish-yellow hue, bluish glaucous coating, nutritional powerhouse.

Scientific Classification of Pawpaw

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Magnolias, nutmegs, and allies

Family

Custard apple

Genus

Pawpaws

Species

Pawpaw

Planting and Growing of Pawpaw

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-85℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

5.5-7

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Pawpaw?

For Asimina triloba, the watering amount should be generous but measured. Ensure the soil is thoroughly soaked, allowing the water to reach deep into the root zone. This promotes healthy root development and ensures ample hydration without waterlogging.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Pawpaw? ›

What should I do if my Pawpaw is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Pawpaw? ›

How to save an overwatered Pawpaw? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Pawpaw?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full sun

Duration of light: 4 to 8 hours

For optimal health, Asimina triloba thrives in a light range of partial sun to full sun. This exposure supports vibrant growth and ensures healthy fruiting cycles with abundant, flavorful yields.

What is the best placement for Asimina triloba? ›

How can I ensure my Asimina triloba gets ideal sunlight? ›

What benefits can my Asimina triloba gain from ideal sunlight? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Pawpaw?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 85℉

The optimal temperature range for the growth of Asimina triloba is between 60°F and 85°F. This range ensures that the plant has the right conditions for photosynthesis and growth. Consistently maintaining these temperatures allows the plant to thrive without stress and supports both root and leaf system development.

What Soil is Best for Pawpaw?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 5.5 ~ 7

Asimina triloba thrives in well-drained soil, which prevents root rot by ensuring that water does not accumulate at the roots. A well-drained environment is essential for healthy growth and fruit production. The presence of rich organic matter in the soil provides essential nutrients to Asimina triloba. This organic material supports robust growth and increases the soil's ability to retain moisture, contributing to a more resilient plant. Asimina triloba prefers soil that stays consistently moist, which aids in continuous nutrient uptake and supports lush foliage and reliable fruiting. It's crucial during the growing season when the plant demands more water.

How to Fertilize Pawpaw?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Asimina triloba, also known as the pawpaw, apply fertilizers moderately. Use approximately 1 pound of balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 per 100 square feet during active growth. This ensures healthy growth without overwhelming the plant's root system.

How to Prune Pawpaw?

Pruning Time: Spring, Autumn

Start by identifying the central leader of the tree. Remove any competing or vertical shoots that may interfere. Cut off any branches that are crossing or rubbing. Focus on maintaining an open center to allow sunlight to reach the inner branches. Make sure to use clean, sharp tools, and always cut at a slight angle away from the bud to encourage healthy growth. To shape Asimina triloba, prune the branches that are growing out of its desirable form. Focus on creating a balanced shape while maintaining a strong central leader. Be careful not to over-prune, as this could stress the tree and hinder its fruiting capabilities. Proper shaping enhances the visual appeal and health of the plant by promoting a strong structure. Suckers often grow at the base of pawpaw trees and can drain energy from the main growth. Regularly check for these suckers and carefully remove them at the base using a sharp knife or pruning shears to prevent regrowth. Controlling sucker growth helps the tree direct its energy towards productive branches and improved fruiting.

How to Propagate Pawpaw plant?

Propagate Time: Spring,Early spring

Begin by soaking the seeds in warm water for 24 hours to soften the hard seed coat. This process, known as scarification, helps to speed up the germination process by allowing water to penetrate the seed more easily.

Seeds require a cold stratification period before planting. Place the seeds in a plastic bag with moistened peat moss and store them in the refrigerator at 4°C (39°F) for at least 90 days. This mimics the natural winter conditions they would experience outdoors.

Once stratified, plant the seeds about 1 inch deep in pots filled with seed starting mix. Keep the pots in a warm and sunny location, ensuring the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. Germination can take 6 to 8 weeks.

How to Repot Pawpaw plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Look for signs like the plant becoming root-bound, which means the roots are tightly packed with limited soil. If you see sluggish growth or notice water draining too quickly from the bottom, it's time to consider repotting Asimina triloba.

Select a pot with good drainage holes and ample space for root expansion. The pot should be 2 inches larger in diameter than the current one, aiding healthy growth and preventing waterlogging risks.

Go for a rich and well-draining soil mix. A blend containing loam, sand, and organic compost works well, allowing for sufficient drainage while providing essential nutrients, thus ensuring robust growth.

Toxicity of Pawpaw

Is Pawpaw toxic to humans?

The Pawpaw plant poses a risk of toxicity that may lead to symptoms of poisoning upon ingestion or skin contact. Generally, the effects are mild and stem from the alkaloids found in its fruits, seeds, skins, and leaves. Ingesting parts of this plant can result in symptoms such as abdominal discomfort and headaches, while touching it may lead to skin irritation and redness. Foragers might unintentionally consume the toxic seeds and skins while trying to enjoy the edible fruit. Therefore, wearing gloves is advisable when harvesting or handling the fruits.

Is Pawpaw toxic to cat?

The Pawpaw plant, recognized colloquially as Pawpaw, poses a moderate toxicity threat to felines. Poisoning can happen when a cat consumes various parts of the plant, including the stems, leaves, seeds, or unripe fruit. If a cat ingests these components, it may show signs of distress, suggesting possible poisoning. Should your cat eat any part of the Pawpaw, seeking prompt veterinary assistance is essential to alleviate symptoms and safeguard its health.

Is Pawpaw toxic to dog?

Pawpaw is known to have a moderate level of toxicity for dogs. When canines consume parts of this plant, such as stems, leaves, seeds, or unripe fruit, they can be poisoned. If a dog ingests any of these elements, it might show symptoms that suggest poisoning. These symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, and potentially more severe reactions, depending on the quantity consumed. It is crucial for dog owners to keep a close eye on their pets and restrict their access to pawpaw, particularly due to its moderate toxicity level. In the event that a dog does consume any portion of pawpaw, obtaining immediate veterinary assistance is vital to ensure swift and effective treatment.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.