Age / Size: 2-0 / 18-24" · Height: 35 ft (11 m); rarely 45 ft (14 m) · Spread: clonal patches via shallow rhizomes; trunks 8-12 in (20-30 cm) diameter

 Crown shape: Large shrub or small tree, patch-forming and clonal, often an understory tree

 Light: Shade tolerant, but maximum fruit yields need full sun with wind protection; seedlings need partial shade for 1-2 years · Soil: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5-7.0), well-drained, deep fertile · Moisture: Moisture-retentive but not permanently wet · Zones: 5-8 (4b with careful siting)

 Flowers / fruit: Large yellowish-green to brown berry 2-6 in (5-15 cm) long and 1-3 in broad, 0.7-18 oz; sweet custard-like flesh tasting of banana or pineapple

 Wildlife & landscape: Zebra swallowtail larvae feed on the leaves; flowers pollinated by flies and beetles; attracts butterflies, pollinators, small mammals and songbirds

 Native range: Eastern North America; deep shade to full sun in moist, nutrient-rich forests, floodplains and stream banks

 Cautions: Self-incompatible — you need two or more genetically different varieties for fruit. Purplish-brown flowers in early spring before the leaves. The pawpaw peduncle borer can destroy flowers; root suckers can be weedy. Wear gloves when harvesting; contact dermatitis has been reported.

 Sources: NC State Extension · Wikipedia

PICK-UP INSTRUCTIONS: All Tree Sale orders are to be picked up at Farmstead Flats (6338 Lovers Lane, Portage, MI 49002) - on April 16th, 2026 (9am-5pm) and/or April 17th, 2026 (9am-12pm)