Pawpaws grow wild over a wide range of latitude, from the Gulf Coastal plain to southern Michigan. They occur in USDA hardiness zones 5 through 8. They require a minimum of 32 inches of rainfall each year, spread rather evenly throughout the year, with the majority falling in spring and summer.
Pawpaws require a deep, fertile, well-drained soil with a soil pH in the range 5.5 to 7.0. Good soil drainage is essential for tree survival. The tree performs best in paritial shade; however, commercial plantings are set in full sun.
