Smallflower, also known as Dwarf Pawpaw, is a miniature version of Common Pawpaw (Asimina triloba), with smaller flowers, smaller leaves, and shorter stature.

This uncommon forest understory shrub of the Coastal Plain and Piedmont regions of North Carolina occurs in drier sites than Common Pawpaw. It rarely reaches more than 4-5 feet tall in North Carolina.

Chatham Co., NC 9/20/08.

The deciduous leaves are simple and alternate. They are fragrant when crushed, not as malodorous as those of Common Pawpaw. Smallflower Pawpaw is uncommon inconspicuous and very easy to overlook.

Chatham Co., NC 9/20/08.

Durham, NC 7/24/07.

Durham, NC 5/17/08.

Durham Co., NC 4/27/02.

Odd little flowers are produced in late April.

Pender Co., NC 4/23/06.

Battle Park, Chapel Hill, NC 4/23/05.

Durham Co., NC 4/27/02.

The fruits are similar to those of Common Pawpaw, but smaller.

Durham, NC 7/24/07.

Durham, NC 7/24/07.

Bark detail.

Durham, NC 7/24/07.