Bigflower Pawpaw
Asimina obovata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
72"–240" H × 48"–120" W
Bloom
Feb, Mar, Apr
Native to
FL
Pollinators
beetles, flies
Bigflower pawpaw is a large evergreen shrub that can reach 20 feet tall and 10 feet wide at maturity. It produces large, fragrant flowers in late winter and early spring, followed by edible fruits that attract wildlife.
In an HOA neighborhood
Bigflower Pawpaw takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Grows very large and can overwhelm smaller spaces
- May appear too informal or wild for front yard landscaping
- Fruit drop can create maintenance issues
Wildlife value
Host plant for zebra swallowtail.
The flowers attract beetles and flies for pollination. The fruits provide food for various wildlife species including birds and mammals.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Bigflower Pawpaw fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.