Slimleaf Pawpaw
Asimina angustifolia
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
36"–120" H × 24"–60" W
Bloom
Mar, Apr, May
Native to
FL
Pollinators
beetles, flies
Slimleaf pawpaw is a shrub that grows 3-10 feet tall with narrow leaves and small, dark red flowers in spring. This deciduous plant produces small edible fruits and naturally forms colonies through underground runners.
In an HOA neighborhood
Slimleaf 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.
- Spreads by runners creating informal colonies
- Can appear bare and unkempt when dormant
- Natural growth habit looks wild rather than landscaped
Wildlife value
Host plant for zebra swallowtail.
The flowers attract beetles and flies for pollination, while the fruits provide food for wildlife. As a native pawpaw species, it supports local ecosystem relationships.
Common questions
- How much sun does Slimleaf Pawpaw need?
- Slimleaf Pawpaw grows best in part sun conditions.
- When does Slimleaf Pawpaw bloom?
- Slimleaf Pawpaw blooms in March, April, and May.
- Where is Slimleaf Pawpaw native?
- Slimleaf Pawpaw (Asimina angustifolia) is native to FL, per the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists.
- What butterflies or moths does Slimleaf Pawpaw host?
- Slimleaf Pawpaw is a larval host plant for zebra swallowtail.
- Is Slimleaf Pawpaw HOA-friendly?
- Slimleaf Pawpaw takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
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.
Ready to grow Slimleaf Pawpaw? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
Not sure where to start? Take the 2-minute yard quiz