A small tree usually under 25’, can grow to 40’. Wide topped, with sparse, straight branches and distinctive flowers and fruit . The large, drooping leaves are also conspicuous. The inner bark was valued historically in production of cord and fishing nets. Native Early settlers made jelly that is still sold in some Southern towns. Pawpaw fruit is eaten by birds, squirrels, raccoons, opossums and is the only food source for the Zebra Swallowtail Butterfly. There is no use for the wood, but the inner bark was woven into fiber cloth by the Louisiana Indians and pioneers used it for stringing fish. The only member of the Custard-Apple Family, also known as Wild Banana, Custard Apple and Fetidshrub.
Large 5-11” long, 2-3” wide. Green pepper/fresh asphalt odor when crushed.
Smooth, thin, brown, splotched with wart like pores. Pale grey patches appear.
Pale brown semi-thick twig, with dark brown buds. Young stems have reddish hairs.
Pale brown semi-thick twig, with dark brown buds. Young stems have reddish hairs.
Purple, brown broad bell shaped, 1-2” across. Flowers appear with leaves and have an odor of fermenting grapes.