Asimina parviflora Plant Identification (Flower, Leaf, Care, Uses)

Asimina parviflora (Michx.) Dunal – Dwarf Paw Paw

Asimina parviflora plant

FamilyAnnonaceae

Stems:

Asimina parviflora stem

Leaves:

Asimina parviflora leaves

Inflorescence:

Asimina parviflora inflorescence

Flowers:

Asimina parviflora flower

Asimina parviflora flower

Asimina parviflora fruitFruit.

Flowering – March – May.

Habitat – Sandy to dry woods, ravines.

Origin – Native to North America.

Other information – This species can be found essentially throughout Alabama but seems to reach the northern edge of its range near the northern border of the state. The plant can be identified by its small size and small flowers. The flowers open before the leaves in the spring.
The genus name Asimina derives from the native American name for the plant “assimin.” The early French colonists adopted the name “Asiminier.”
The species epithet parviflora derives from the Latin “parv(i)” meaning “small” and “flor(a)” meaning “a flower” referring to the small flowers of this species (when compared to others in the genus).

Alabama Distribution:

Asimina parviflora map

Photographs taken at Coon Creek, Tallapoosa County, AL., 4-9-06.