Each pawpaw flower is cup-shaped and green when they open but become dark red-purple as they mature. At least two plants are needed for cross-pollination. Submitted photo

Looking to add a touch of the tropics to your yard or garden? Though not a palm tree or other iconic plant species of the tropics, the pawpaw (Asimina triloba) is a small, native tree belonging to a family of tropical and sub-tropical fruiting species including the guana, banana, or soursop.

It is the only species in the group that grows in a temperate climate with a range over most of Eastern North America from Ontario and Michigan and south to Florida and Texas, including Pennsylvania.

The tree provides edible landscaping in the form of unusual greenish-yellow fruit comparable to bananas, mangos, or pineapple in flavor.

Pawpaws are understory trees or shrubs growing to 10 to 12 feet in height but can attain heights of 25 feet in areas where optimal conditions are found. They acquire a more open structure if planted under tall, open trees such as oaks, maple, or hickory or in partial shade, but the fruit can develop best in sunny sited locations.

A portion of this story is shared with you as a digital media exclusive. To read the full story and support our local, independent newsroom, please subscribe at butlereagle.com.