This plant is not related at all to what we call a pawpaw here in Australia (papaya).
It is a cool climate relative of the custard apple, found naturally from the deep south of the US right up to the Great Lakes region bordering Canada.
Deciduous in winter, it can take extreme cold and is one of the most delicious and sought after of wild fruits. With a flavour reminiscent of mango, banana and pineapple with a melting custard-like texture.
With enough winter chill it should do well in most regions of Australia.
Do not plant bare-rooted as the young seedling develops a long taproot in its first year which can easily be damaged. Shade is important until the tree is two or three years old then it will benefit from a bit more sun. Our Australian sun is much hotter than where these guys originated to they will always need afternoon shade especially in the middle of summer.
Ensure the ground is damp before planting out, as the they love water. This tree prefers moist, acidic, fertile soils in full sun to part shade. Pawpaw may be grown for its fruit or as a landscape specimen, or may be naturalized in wild gardens, exotic plant areas or grow in a shrub border or woodland margin.
Effective in damp areas along ponds or streams. Seeds best planted into individual very tall pots to allow tap root room to grow.
Keep seeds damp and cool (in fridge) until ready to sow.
No serious insect or disease problems.
This species is almost impossible to obtain in this country and rarely offered for sale. I have a few of these seeds for sale surplus to my requirements – bought fresh from US grower, this seasons fruit.