Trilobed Mussel (Asimina triloba)

Other names: Indian banana, poor man's banana, banana of the north, moth, Indiana Banana, paw paw, hoosier banana, Annona triloba, Asimina glabra, Porcelia triloba

Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)

The three-lobed mulberry (Asimina triloba), sometimes called the Indian banana, poor man's banana, or banana of the north, is a fruit tree native to the eastern United States. It is a member of the leafhopper family and is the only representative of its genus that can grow in our conditions. The bushy tree grows to a height of 5 to 10 metres and resembles a cherry tree with its broad leaves. In spring, the flowering tree is clothed in a beautiful shimmering green. In autumn, the leaves turn golden in colour.

The fruit of the trifoliate muhly bears a striking taste resemblance to the banana, which is why it is often called the Indian banana. It is used in many areas, especially in gastronomy. In the United States, where the tree is native, the fruit is popular and it is common to buy, for example, ice cream, yoghurt or cakes flavoured with the muskmelon. It is also excellent in conjunction with chocolate as part of desserts. It is also used to make marmalades, jams, puddings, smoothies and other drinks. However, the fruit is not the only part of the tree that is used. The seeds contain insecticides and were used in the past by Native Americans as a pesticide. Because of its aroma, the wood of the muðoulou tree is also used for furniture.