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. PAW PAW
Pawpaws are small, deciduous understory trees producing oblong green-to-brown fruit with a creamy, custard-like texture. They taste like a blend of banana, mango, vanilla, and pineapple. Thriving in moist, rich bottomland forests, they are