what is a pawpaw fruit

A pawpaw fruit (Asimina triloba), also known as American papaw or custard banana, is the largest edible fruit native to North America. It grows on a small deciduous tree found mainly in the eastern United States and southern Canada. The fruit is yellowish-green to brown when ripe, ranging from 2 to 6 inches long, with soft, custard-like flesh that is sweet and has a flavor resembling a mix of banana, mango, and pineapple. The pawpaw fruit is eaten raw, often chilled or at room temperature, and is also used in various desserts like ice cream and baked goods. It contains several large brown or black seeds that are not edible. The fruit is nutritious, containing vitamin C, vitamin A, minerals like potassium, magnesium, iron, and manganese, and it has a relatively high protein content for a fruit. Despite its delicious taste and nutritional benefits, pawpaw fruits have a short shelf life and bruise easily, which limits commercial availability. Historically, it was a popular fruit among Native Americans and early European settlers and is making a mild comeback in interest today. The tree itself has large leaves and purple maroon flowers, and it thrives in hardwood forests with well-drained fertile soil. Overall, it's a unique fruit with tropical-like flavor and custard texture but adapted to a temperate climate.