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Cold Harty Pawpaw Resource #925628

Asked March 08, 2026, 4:05 PM EDT

I am from northern mn about zone 4b and am looking for info/resources on any cold hardy pawpaw varieties I can get my hands on or growers I can contact

Marshall County Minnesota

Expert Response

Thank you for writing.
Where in Marshall County?
Is this for agricultural or garden use?

Marshall county 
  • Zone 3b (-35 to -30°F): generally in the northern and eastern parts of the county.
  • Zone 4a (-30 to -25°F): generally southern or western, parts of the county.
The native range is South of MN. https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/anr-0187
However there are many reports of small plots in small groves in the southern third of the state. 
I don't think that it could be done commercially.  It is possible that a sunny, sheltered site in Marshall County might work for a while. However, Paw Paws grow to 25 feet; protecting such a tree in an arctic vortex would be challenging. 
Is there anything else that I can do for you?
Steve Miles, Master Gardener, Hennepin County MN (I am a human being, not a bot nor AI). I am an avid gardener but am not a degreed or certified horticulturist or arborist. I am happy to receive follow-up questions if my responses are incomplete or unclear.  This is the University of MN' garden soil testing service.  https://soiltest.cfans.umn.edu/testing-services/lawn-garden This is guidance on how to find a tree expert.  https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/how-hire-tree-care-professional The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum is a wonderful place to see and learn about plants that grow in Minnesota. https://mngardens.horticulture.umn.edu/minnesota-landscape-arboretum Replied March 08, 2026, 8:23 PM EDT

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