Description: This shrub or small tree loves the shade and is found in the undergrowth of the woods. The leaves pearish shaped, pointed on the ends 6 to 12 inches long. The showy purple flowers about 1-1/2 inches have 6 petals, 3 outer, 3 enter, some call this the "Wood Rose". Fruit may be in clusters but most often 1, 3 to 5 inches long looking like a stubby banana with rounded ends. The are green at first but turn brown as cool weather ripes them. The interior contains scattered dark, flat and large seeds about 1 inch long with a custard like sweet pulp surrounding them. Many ole timers find this pulp delicious and sell i at markets. Another spelling name is Papaw and also known as the "Custard apple"

Location: Swamps, Woods, Shade
 

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