The slim leaf pawpaw, scientifically known as Asimina parviflora, is a lesser-known native fruit-bearing shrub. It belongs to the custard apple family (Annonaceae), which primarily consists of tropical species. This plant offers a unique addition to native landscapes, producing edible fruit and serving as a host plant for the zebra swallowtail butterfly.
Identifying Slim Leaf Pawpaw
The slim leaf pawpaw is typically a small to medium-sized deciduous shrub, generally reaching 6 to 8 feet, though some can grow up to 10 feet. Young shoots and leaves often display a rusty, downy texture, which smooths out as they mature. Its leaves are thick, dark green, and can be up to 8 inches long, with an oblong to obovate or oblanceolate shape, tapering to a point at the tip. When crushed, the leaves may emit a faint, unpleasant scent.
Its flowers are a distinctive feature, appearing before the leaves in April and May. These small, brownish-purple to maroon, six-petaled flowers are bell-shaped and about 3/4 inch across. They emerge singly from leaf axils and may have a slightly unpleasant odor, which attracts their primary pollinators: flies and beetles. The bark of the slim leaf pawpaw is typically dark brown or dark gray, sometimes with lenticels.
Native Habitat and Growing Conditions
The slim leaf pawpaw is native to the Southeastern United States, with its natural range extending from southeastern Virginia to Florida and eastern Texas. It thrives in coastal plain pine forests, dry pine or oak woods, and thickets.
This plant is often found in the understory, preferring environments with fertile, loose, and acidic soils. It adapts well to well-drained, sandy, or loamy soils, and requires moderate moisture levels. While it can tolerate partial shade, it can also establish itself in full sun as it matures. The plant is well-suited for USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 7a through 10b, indicating its preference for warmer climates.
Slim Leaf Pawpaw Fruit
The fruit of the slim leaf pawpaw is a berry, typically cylindrical in shape and ranging from 1 to 3 inches in length. It starts as greenish-yellow and matures to a dark brown, sometimes appearing nearly black. The fruit’s skin is smooth, and its fleshy pulp is edible, though smaller than that of its relative, Asimina triloba, the common pawpaw.
Ripening occurs from July to September, and the fruit usually has a custard-like texture when ready. A ripe fruit will yield slightly to a gentle squeeze and may emit a sweet aroma. It is generally recommended to consume the fruit when it is perfectly ripe, and seeds and peels should be avoided. For optimal fruit set, more than one genetically distinct plant is needed for cross-pollination.
Growing Slim Leaf Pawpaw
Cultivating slim leaf pawpaw involves understanding its specific needs, particularly regarding its deep taproot. Due to this root structure, transplanting can be challenging, so it is best to plant from seed or a young sapling.
Seeds require scarification and a cold stratification period of 60 to 90 days at around 41 degrees Fahrenheit to break dormancy. When planting, choose a site with well-draining, acidic to neutral soil, ensuring it is loose and fertile. Young plants benefit from partial shade, especially during establishment, though mature plants can tolerate more sun. Consistent moisture is important, particularly for newly planted trees, but avoid waterlogging. Pruning can help maintain shape and remove dead branches. Propagation can also be achieved through root cuttings or layering.