The Pawpaw is also known as the American Pawpaw or Papaw. It is a hardy, perennial fruit tree native to North America. It grows into a small tree or large shrub. Growth is slow at first, but later the plant can spread through root suckers. Young plants tolerate partial shade, while mature trees require plenty of sunlight to produce fruit well. The plant is very hardy, although young specimens are somewhat sensitive. The dark purple to chestnut-brown flowers are pollinated by flies and beetles. For good fruit production, multiple plants are needed. The oval to banana-shaped fruits are light green on the outside, while the inside is pale yellow to cream-colored. The soft, creamy flesh has a flavour that combines banana, mango, pineapple, and vanilla. The fruit is mainly used in ice cream, smoothies, pastries, desserts, and tropical dishes. The Pawpaw is especially valued in food forests and by enthusiasts of unusual fruit because of its combination of winter hardiness, exotic flavor, and perennial growth habit. Deciduous, hardy perennial.
