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Can You Grow Pawpaw in British Columbia?

Canada · Canadian Zone 8 · zones 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Won't grow here

Pawpaw needs a combination of cold winters and warm summers that your zone does not provide.

Plant zones

5a–8b

British Columbia last frost

early March

British Columbia first frost

early December

Days to harvest

Perennial

About Pawpaw

The pawpaw is North America's largest native fruit — tropical-tasting with a custard-like texture reminiscent of banana and mango. Deer-resistant and suited to cold climates. Fruits appear on 5-8 year old trees.

Plant two different seedlings for pollination. Prefers partial shade when young, full sun when mature. Needs moist, well-drained soil. Slow to establish but long-lived. Protect flowers from late frost — a covered frame helps the first few springs.

Full pawpaw growing guide →

Gardening in British Columbia

BC has dramatically different climates. The mild rainy coast (Zone 7-9) allows near-year-round growing. The interior is semi-arid (Zone 5-7) with hot summers and cold winters. One of Canada's most productive growing regions.

See what grows well in British Columbia →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Pawpaw in British Columbia?

Pawpaw needs a combination of cold winters and warm summers that your zone does not provide.

What zone is British Columbia?

British Columbia spans Canadian Zone 8 (5, 6, 7, 8, 9).

When do you plant Pawpaws in British Columbia?

See the planting guide for Pawpaw — timing depends on your exact frost date.