Asimina parviflora aka Dwarf Pawpaw

Asimina parviflora is known as small-flowered pawpaw or dwarf pawpaw. It belongs to the pawpaw family, Annonaceae. This deciduous shrub grows in the southeastern United States. Its range runs from North Carolina to Florida and Texas. It lives in pine woods, oak woods, and thickets. Plants grow slowly and have an upright, open form. They may form several stems or become small trees. Most reach 6–8 feet (1.8–2.4 metres) tall. Reported heights range from 3–12 feet (0.9–3.7 metres). Spread ranges from 2–6 feet (0.6–1.8 metres).

The bark is gray-brown, with raised lenticels on its surface. Young stems range from orange-brown to red-brown, then turn brown. Rust-colored hairs coat new shoots and leaves, then wear away. The simple green leaves grow in an alternate pattern. They have smooth edges and a broad, long shape. Sources give leaf lengths of about 3–7 inches. The leaves have a scent. Dark brown twigs bear fuzzy, purple-brown buds without bud scales.

Flowers open in spring, with March to April reported. They appear before the leaves or as leaves unfold. Each flower grows alone where a leaf joins the stem. Six brown-purple petals form a small bell. Sources differ on size, from under one inch to three inches. Flies and beetles pollinate the flowers. Fruit set needs plants from more than one genetic strain. The fleshy berries measure about 1–3 inches long. Green or yellow-green fruit turns dark brown as it matures. Fruit appears from July through September.

Choose loose soil that drains well, with some shade. Established plants can also grow in full sun. Sandy or loamy soils suit it, from acidic to neutral. It accepts moist soil and some dry periods. Dry, packed soil does not suit it. Its long taproot makes moving plants hard. Young plants need care while their roots become established. Sources list USDA zones 7–9 and, more broadly, 7–10. Growers can raise it from seed, root cuttings, or layering.

This shrub suits woodland, native plant, and butterfly gardens. Zebra swallowtail caterpillars feed on its leaves. Birds and mammals eat its fruit, including squirrels and bears. People can eat the sweet fruit fresh or cooked. Native Americans and early settlers used it as food. Historical uses also include leaf and seed remedies. Those records do not establish their safety or effectiveness. The supplied sources give no specific pest, disease, or toxicity assessment.