Leaves may emerge yellow and appear yellowish for the first several weeks of spring, particularly in northern latitudes. The tree grows optimally under maximum photosynthetic conditions of high summer air and soil temperatures, ample water, and high nitrogen rates. Recommended tree spacing is 5.5 m between rows and 2 m within the row. Row orientation should be north-south. Flower bud initiation occurs in late July and early August.
Pawpaws tend to be precocious under good conditions.
Two year old grafted trees that are 1m tall may have as many as 40 flower buds. Dormant vegetative buds are narrow and pointed and are quite readily distinguished from the more spherical flower buds. Flowers emerge before leaves. Flowers are singly borne. Asimina triloba has maroon-colored calyx.