Indian-banana
Asimina triloba
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
240"–480" H × 180"–360" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, DE, FL and 24 more states
Pollinators
beetles, flies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Pawpaw is a native understory tree that produces large, tropical-looking leaves and edible fruit. It grows slowly to 20-40 feet tall with a naturally pyramidal shape when young, spreading into colonies over time through root suckers.
In an HOA neighborhood
Indian-banana 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.
- Forms colonies through suckers which can look untidy
- Large leaves may appear too informal for front yards
- Fruit drop can create maintenance issues
Wildlife value
Host plant for zebra swallowtail butterfly.
The flowers attract beetles and flies for pollination, while the leaves serve as the exclusive host plant for zebra swallowtail butterfly caterpillars. Birds and mammals enjoy the nutritious fruit in late summer.
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 Indian-banana fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.