Plant of Merit: PAWPAW Asimina Tribola “Taylor”

Published 5:39 pm Tuesday, December 8, 2015

What: PAWPAW Asimina Tribola “Taylor”

This deciduous tree is native to the temperate woodlands of the eastern United States. The discovery of fossils indicate that it is indigenous to this part of the world, likely carried west and south by native Americans. It has been grown with success in the Pacific Northwest as it requires some winter chill and at least 160 frost-free days. Its long dark green leaves definitely give it a tropical appearance. In the fall, the leaves turn yellow before falling off, and later produces dark brown soft buds in the spring that open to maroon flowers. The fruit on the “Taylor” cultivar is small but delicious, and ripens between August and October.

Sun or shade: Needs dappled sun for at least the first two years, so a tree shade cloth would be wise, followed by full sun exposure thereafter.

Size: Mature height is 12 to 20 feet; it is a slow grower when young.

See it: WSU Master Gardener Discovery Garden, WSU NW Washington Research &Education Center, 16650 State Route 536, Mt. Vernon.

Source: Sandra Schumacher, Special to The Herald