PAPAW Asimina triloba Dunal
THE papaw, which grows as a small tree or large shrub, is very well known throughout the State, except in the northern parts, and is sometimes called the “wild banana” tree. Most commonly it occurs as an undergrowth in the shade of rich forests of the larger hardwood trees. Its range extends from New York westward to Iowa and southward to Florida and eastern Texas. When growing alone, however, it forms dense clumps on deep, moist soils in creek bottoms. The bark is thin, dark grayish-brown, and smooth, or slightly fissured on old trees.
PAPAW
Leaf, one-quarter natural size. Twig, two-thirds natural size.
The leaves are alternate on the stem, pear-shaped with pointed ends and tapering bases, smooth and light green above, from 8 to 10 inches long, clustered toward the ends of the branches.
The dark purple, attractive flowers appear with the leaves singly or in two’s along the branch, measure nearly 2 inches across, and produce nectar which attracts the bees.
When thoroughly ripe, the fruit is delicious and nutritious. It measures from 3 to 5 inches in length, turns from greenish-yellow to very dark brown in color, and holds rounded or elongated seeds which separate readily from the pulp.
The wood is light, soft or spongy, and weak, greenish to yellowish in color, and of no commercial importance.