Common Pawpaw Seeds (Asimina triloba)

Description

This product is Common Pawpaw Seeds – 5 Seeds per pack

The Common Pawpaw (Asimina triloba) is a unique and versatile tree native to the eastern United States, known for its distinct, custard-like fruit and large, tropical-looking leaves. This small deciduous tree, which typically grows between 15 and 30 feet tall, is a prized addition to gardens and landscapes, especially those focused on native plantings or edible landscapes.

Seed and Sprouting

Seeds must be stored moist.  If the seeds dry out, they will not be viable.

Pawpaw seeds are large, flat, and brown, resembling beans. They are enclosed within the fruit and must be removed before planting. Pawpaw seeds require a period of cold stratification to break dormancy and promote germination. This involves storing the seeds in a moist medium, such as peat moss or sand, at temperatures between 32°F and 40°F (0°C to 4°C) for about 90 to 120 days.

These seeds have already been stratified.

After stratification, the seeds can be planted in deep pots or directly in the ground in the spring. Pawpaw seeds should be planted about 1 to 2 inches deep. It’s important to note that pawpaw seedlings develop a deep taproot, making them sensitive to transplanting. For this reason, it’s often best to start them in their final location or in tall, deep pots to accommodate their root growth.

Pawpaw seedlings are slow to establish and may take several years to reach a size where they begin to flower and fruit. Patience is required, but the reward is a hardy, low-maintenance tree that produces delicious fruit and supports local wildlife.

If planted in the spring, you may not see the Pawpaw sapling sprout until July.

Growth and Appearance

The Common Pawpaw has a striking appearance with its large, oblong leaves that can reach up to 12 inches in length, giving the tree a lush, tropical vibe. The leaves are dark green during the growing season and turn a brilliant yellow in the fall. The tree’s smooth, gray bark and unique maroon, bell-shaped flowers, which bloom in spring, add to its ornamental appeal. When mature, the tree produces oblong fruits that ripen from green to yellowish-brown in late summer to early fall. These fruits are rich in flavor, with a texture similar to custard and a taste reminiscent of banana, mango, and melon.

Sun Requirements

Pawpaw trees are naturally found in the understory of forests, so they are adapted to partial shade. Young trees, in particular, thrive in shaded conditions and may struggle if exposed to full sun. As they mature, however, pawpaws become more tolerant of sunlight and can perform well in full sun, which also promotes better fruit production. For best results, plant them where they will receive partial to full sun, depending on their age.

Soil Conditions

Pawpaws prefer rich, well-drained soils that are slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. They thrive in loamy or sandy loam soils that are high in organic matter, mimicking the fertile environments of their natural forest habitats. While they can adapt to a variety of soil types, they do not tolerate poorly drained soils, as waterlogged conditions can lead to root rot.

Water Requirements

Consistent moisture is crucial, especially for young pawpaw trees. During their establishment phase, regular watering is essential to help them develop a strong root system. Mature pawpaws are more drought-tolerant but still benefit from deep, infrequent watering. Mulching around the base of the tree helps retain soil moisture and keeps the roots cool, which is particularly important in hotter climates.

Pollination and Fruit Production

Pawpaw trees have maroon, bell-shaped flowers that bloom in spring and are primarily pollinated by flies and beetles, rather than bees. These flowers have a slightly unpleasant odor, which attracts their specific pollinators. Importantly, pawpaws are self-incompatible, meaning cross-pollination between two genetically distinct trees is required for fruit production. Therefore, it is recommended to plant at least two different pawpaw trees within proximity to each other to ensure good fruit set.

Pests and Diseases

Pawpaws are naturally resistant to most pests and diseases. Their leaves and bark contain compounds that deter many herbivores and insects. The tree is also the host plant for the zebra swallowtail butterfly (Eurytides marcellus), whose larvae feed on the leaves. This feeding typically causes only minor damage and does not significantly affect the health of the tree.

Other Considerations

Pawpaws can be propagated by seed, root suckers, or grafting, especially when trying to maintain specific cultivars. Due to their slow growth and specific requirements, pawpaw trees are best suited for gardeners who are patient and interested in cultivating native species.

Overall, the Common Pawpaw is an excellent choice for those looking to add an unusual, yet valuable, tree to their landscape. Its unique fruit, low-maintenance nature, and ecological benefits make it a standout addition to any garden.