Pawpaw

A wonderfully exotic tree, Asimina triloba, the North American pawpaw, brings a touch of the tropics to the temperate garden. In Spring, curious nodding maroon-purple flowers appear along bare branches, followed by large, drooping, lush green leaves that give the tree a jungle-like presence all Summer. In Autumn, the foliage turns a clear, buttery yellow, often just as the fruit ripens. Where conditions allow, the tree bears large, soft, custard-textured fruits with a rich tropical flavour reminiscent of banana, mango, and vanilla. Surprisingly tough and pest-free, it is fully hardy, though it needs a warm, sheltered spot and a long growing season to fruit in Ireland. Fruiting is possible but not guaranteed, and it is best treated as a rewarding challenge for keen growers. Even without fruit, it makes a handsome, architectural small tree. Plant two or more together to give the best chance of fruit. Ideal for Polytunnels, South facing walls, walled gardens, and they can also be planted in large containers. 

Site: Shelter from strong winds, which can tear the large leaves and damage flowers and fruit
Soil: Deep, fertile, moist but well-drained soil, ideally slightly acidic to neutral; dislikes waterlogging, shallow chalk, and heavy compacted ground
Position: Full sun
Season of Interest: Unusual maroon flowers in Spring, lush tropical-looking foliage in Summer, golden-yellow leaves in Autumn, and (where conditions suit) custard-like fruits in early Autumn
Harvest: Fruits ripen in late September to October where they set; they are ready when soft to the touch and the aroma becomes strong and sweet
Storage: Ripe fruit keeps only 2-3 days at room temperature and up to 1-2 weeks refrigerated; the pulp freezes well
Hardiness: Fully hardy
Height: Height: 13-20ft (4-6m) Spread: 10-16ft (3-5m)

Image 1 by rockerBOO cropped and licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
Image 2 by Plant Image Library cropped and licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
Image 3 by Wendell Smith cropped and licensed under CC BY 2.0