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Can You Grow Pawpaw in Arizona?

US · USDA Zone 9a · zones 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a

Won't grow here

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

Plant zones

5a–8b

Arizona last frost

late January

Arizona first frost

late 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 Arizona

Arizona spans dramatic climate zones from cool mountain forests to hot desert. Low-elevation cities like Phoenix grow year-round; high-elevation areas are Zone 5-6.

See what grows well in Arizona →

Frequently asked questions

Can you grow Pawpaw in Arizona?

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

What zone is Arizona?

Arizona spans USDA Zone 9a (4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a).

When do you plant Pawpaws in Arizona?

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