The GNPS Plant of the Year program recognizes native plants that are underutilized in commercial and residential landscapes or which are vital components of Georgia?s ecology. Pawpaw (Asimina triloba) is a native tree that produces the largest edible fruit indigenous to North America. Pawpaw trees grow naturally in rich woodlands and hillsides near streams. In the yard, pawpaws like partial shade and once established, they can survive short droughts. Pawpaw is the larval host for the zebra swallowtail butterfly (featured above) and the pawpaw sphinx moth. Click here to read more about pawpaw.

Nominations for the Plant of the Year are accepted in fall each year, and member voting occurs in November. Become a member and be a part of the fun!