How to Grow and Care for Pawpaw

Pawpaw, also known as Indiana banana, Papaw, American custard apple, Poor man's banana, Appalachian banana

Pawpaw requires minimal care once established, thriving in both full sun and partial shade with well-draining soil. It's crucial to water pawpaw during dry spells, especially in the first few years for good root establishment. One of the special care points includes the need for two genetically diverse pawpaw trees for cross-pollination and fruit production. Pawpaw's pruning requirements are low, with light pruning to encourage airflow and shape as needed.

Watering schedule: Every 1-2 weeks

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

Toxic to Humans

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Planting and Growing Pawpaw

Toughness	High
Care Level	Low
Care Difficulty	Easy
Lifespan	Perennial
Watering Schedule	Every 1-2 weeks
Sunlight Requirements	Full sun
Soil Type	Garden Soil
Soil pH	5.5-7
Planting Time	Spring, Fall
Hardiness Zones	5-9
Toxicity	Toxic to Humans

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The Toxicity of Pawpaw

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More General Info About Pawpaw

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Pawpaw is a medium-sized deciduous tree with a spreading habitat and a notable presence in understories. It exhibits broad, oblong leaves that emit a distinctive odor when crushed. In the autumn, these leaves turn a vibrant yellow. The bark of pawpaw is smooth, marked with conspicuous wart-like lenticels that provide a notable texture to the tree's exterior. The adaptive nature of pawpaw allows it to thrive in a range of sunlight exposures, from deep shade to full sun, as long as it is rooted in moist, well-draining, and slightly acidic soils.