Paw - Paw

Explore the pawpaw as a local alternative to imported tropical fruits, noted in this Instagram post .

Focus on planting native pawpaws to support biodiversity and the zebra swallowtail butterfly. PAW PAW

Pawpaws are fragile, bruise easily, and do not ship well, which is why they are rarely found in grocery stores. Potential Essay Angles: Explore the pawpaw as a local alternative to

Ripe pawpaws fall to the ground in late summer or early fall (September/October). Potential Essay Angles: Ripe pawpaws fall to the

Thriving in moist, rich bottomland forests, they are native to 26 U.S. states, ranging from the Great Lakes down to the Florida Panhandle and west to Nebraska. They grow well in shade as saplings but require full sun to produce fruit.

The skin and seeds are not edible. The fruit can be eaten raw, or used in custards, smoothies, and ice cream.