Planting Pawpaw Trees Across Northern Illinois
Preserving America's largest native fruit through community planting, education, and conservation.
Preserving Native Heritage for Future Generations
The Pawpaw Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to planting pawpaw trees and educating Northern Illinois communities about their ecological, cultural, and nutritional value.
Through hands-on planting efforts and engaging programs with schools, community groups, and local organizations, we're building a movement to restore this remarkable native species to the landscape.
What is a Pawpaw?
North America's forgotten treasure — a tropical-tasting fruit that grows wild across the eastern United States.
Native Heritage
The largest edible fruit native to North America, with a rich history as a food source for indigenous peoples.
Tropical Flavor
A unique blend of banana, mango, and pineapple with a creamy, custard-like texture unlike any other fruit.
Ecological Value
The sole host plant for zebra swallowtail butterflies, thriving naturally in forest understory environments.
Get Involved
Join us in planting the future. Every volunteer hour and every donation brings more pawpaw trees to Northern Illinois.
Volunteer
- Tree planting days
- School education programs
- Grove maintenance
- Festival support
Donate
