11. Asimina triloba, Paw Paw

Asimina triloba, Paw Paw, early spring 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Paw paw leaf in an alternate arragement

If you look carefully, you can see the paw paw fruit

 

11. Paw Paw, Asimina triloba

Artist’s Note:

Native to Eastern North America, the small, historic paw paw tree is a member of the Magnolia order and Annonaceae family. Known for its delicious wild fruit, which tastes similar to a banana, called a custard apple. In early spring the small deep-maroon-and-chartreuse-colored flowers emerge before the nascent leaves. Later they develop into large simple leaves that are arranged alternately on the stem. The fruit reveals the trilobed nature of the plant as three large distinct pods form the structure. Although easily mistaken for an exotic tropical fruit, it prefers a temperate climate. Because of its resistance to pests and diseases, it is of interest in organic farming. A tree from the past, a native peoples’ food source, is coming into our future food supply. 

 

Vulgo: Paw Paw

 

Name: Asimina triloba

 

Family: Annonaceae 

Habit: Tree

Height: 20 ft (7 M)

Native to: Eastern North America

 

Leaf type: Simple

 

Shape: Obovate

 

Tip: Acute

 

Margin: Entire

 

Venation: Pinnate

 

Surface: Smooth 

 

Size: 9 in (22 cm)

 

Arrangement: Alternate 

 

Pen and ink: Amber R Turner © 2020