Pawpaw (Asimina triloba)

The Pawpaw, also called Indiana banana, is native to the Eastern US and grows as a tall shrub with pretty regularly conical crown. The large leaves give it an exotic look.

Pawpaw needs cross-fertilization - to get fruits at least two genetically different plants must grow together. The pollination is carried by flies and beetles. A single flower develops into a cluster with fruits that are up to 15 cm long. They ripen in the autumn and need a long, hot summer. Then they are soft and juicy and their taste can be described as a mix of banana and mango with vanilla. They are suitable for raw consumption as well as for processing. The flesh has a high nutritional value and a unique composition for a fruit of our climate.

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Pawpaws need rich, deep and slightly acidic soil. Young plants grow better in partial shade, adult tolerate full sun. Especially young plants are frost sensitive and should be planted to the permanent place not until spring. The next three winter they must be covered with mulch and the whole plant wrapped in fleece. After that, they are hardy to -25C. Pruning are normally not required.

Pawpaws develop a weakly branched taproot, which react very sensitively to pressure. During planting any unnecessary touching the roots should be avoid and make sure to introduce the entire root ball intact into the ground.