HomePawpaw › Grow in Ontario

Can You Grow Pawpaw in Ontario?

Canada · Canadian Zone 5 · zones 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

Grows well here

Pawpaw is native to your region and grows well here — a long-term investment with exceptional fruit.

Plant zones

5a–8b

Ontario last frost

mid-April

Ontario first frost

mid-October

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 Ontario

Ontario spans several climate zones. Northern Ontario is Zone 3-4 with short seasons; southern Ontario is Zone 5-7 with long productive seasons. The Niagara Peninsula is one of Canada's premier fruit-growing regions.

See what grows well in Ontario →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Pawpaw in Ontario?

Pawpaw is native to your region and grows well here — a long-term investment with exceptional fruit.

What zone is Ontario?

Ontario spans Canadian Zone 5 (3, 4, 5, 6, 7).

When do you plant Pawpaws in Ontario?

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