Pawpaw
Asimina triloba · Annonaceae (Custard Apple family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Obovate-oblong with an acute to acuminate tip and tapered base
Margin
Entire (smooth)
Arrangement
Alternate
Venation
Pinnate, with prominent raised midrib and prominent lateral veins on the lower surface
Description
The tree features smooth dark brown bark, drooping tropical-looking foliage that gives it a distinctive exotic appearance, maroon cup-shaped spring flowers, and sweet, custard-like greenish-yellow fruits with large brown seeds.
Habitat
Understory tree found typically in rich, moist bottomlands, floodplains, and along streams, as well as shaded slopes. Prefers deep, fertile, well-draining soil and partial to full shade when young.
Native Range
Native to eastern, southern, and Midwestern United States and parts of Ontario, Canada, ranging from New York west to Nebraska, and south to Florida and Texas.