Heather N. Kolich, ANR Agent, UGA Extension Forsyth County
Pawpaws (Asimina triloba) are small, hardy, native trees that make a lovely addition to landscapes. While many trees boast spring blooms, pawpaw flowers turn into edible fruit that feeds people as well as wildlife. The tree is the host plant for zebra swallowtail butterflies. They are shade-tolerant and feature large leaves that deer don’t care to eat. Pawpaws are blooming now along the Big Creek Greenway at Bethelview (look for the pawpaw sign) and at the Sustainable Community Orchard at Chattahoochee Pointe Park.