Paw Paws are a native tree with fruit that is edible and supposed to be quite delicious. The fruit is not suitable for long distant shipping. I don’t know but I’ve been told the trees are also kinda stinky.
Pawpaw taste like mild flavored banana custard. My friend iver in the Ozark hills in Missouri makes the most delicious ice cream with them. You find pawpaw in the woods. It’s an undergrowth tree that never gets big. Lots over at Pere Marquette state park at the Illinois and Mississippi rivers confluence.
Paw Paws are a native tree with fruit that is edible and supposed to be quite delicious. The fruit is not suitable for long distant shipping. I don’t know but I’ve been told the trees are also kinda stinky.
FWIW, I'm thinking there are probably pawpaws out in the woods in your part of MO. I have a friend over in East Texas that knows a spot to go find them. They make up good as a butter, jam or preserves. I like to make butters because I can use less sugar and get more fruit flavor. I wish they could be found for foraging in my area but never find them here. Good thing to keep an eye out for as free food.