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.
Hubby said he had seen some in his various trips to the woods over the years, but can’t remember where. We have 20 acres north of town, but no paw paws.
I was going to order some several years ago, but couldn’t get him to agree to plant them-they were in a native plant catalog and not very expensive. I didn’t push it because I didn’t know if I’d like them-banana is my least favorite fruit.