The Pawpaw Chapter is named for the little "Volusia Pawpaw," Deeringothamnus rugelii. Also known as Yellow Squirrel Banana or Rugel's Pawpaw, it is found only in Volusia County. Rugel's Pawpaw is a member of the Annonaceae or Custard family. There are two species in this genus of 'false pawpaws', and both are listed as endangered, have limited ranges, and are found only in Florida. A specific arrangement of soil type, moisture, and fire regimen limit the range of these species. The other false pawpaw species - Deeringothamnus pulchellus - is located in Orange and Charlotte counties and has recently been reclassified (by some) as a subspecies of D. rugelii.
