Representative illustration

Pawpaw

Asimina triloba

Check your plant’s identity

Does the label say Asimina triloba, pawpaw or papaw, the North American fruit tree with large drooping leaves? In some countries 'pawpaw' means papaya (Carica papaya), a different plant, and other Asimina species or hybrids are not covered. If the label is missing or unclear, choose I'm not sure; the picture does not confirm your plant.

Important precautions

Only the ripe flesh is eaten. Do not eat the skin, seeds, unripe fruit, leaves or stems: extension sources say they can cause stomach upset, and handling the fruit can irritate skin, so wear gloves when picking. A German food-safety laboratory found compounds in the flesh that it links to possible nerve damage and advises against eating it freely, especially for children. No veterinary record for pets was found; keep pets from eating the plant, fruit or seeds and ask a vet if they do.

Care guidance is partial and depends on your growing conditions. Check the available guidance in the app; this profile does not promise complete care. A representative illustration does not confirm your plant’s identity.