Fruiting Persimmon Tree- Diospyros Virginiana
The Persimmon is a common fruit, widely regarded as a gem for its delicate, sugary sweet flavor. However, two types of Fruiting Persimmon Trees bear this fruit. The Japanese Persimmon Tree and the American Persimmon Tree are native to the southeastern United States.
Persimmons are a rather polarizing fruit because they are extremely soft when ready to eat–too soft to be sold at markets or in stores without bruising. But they are utterly perfect in a garden where they can be picked and eaten within minutes.
Fruiting Persimmon Tree Details
Family: Ebenaceae
Light Requirement: Full sun, partial sun
Water Needs: Moderate
Height: 30-80 ft
Spread: 20-35 ft
Growth Rate: Moderate
Soil Preference: Clay soil
Season of Interest: Spring/Summer, Fall
Flower Color: Gold/Yellow
Fruit: Persimmons
Wildlife Value: Mammals, birds, insects, Honeybees
Notable Characteristics of Fruiting Persimmon Trees
This low-growing, shrub-like tree has a mass of interwoven branches that make a lush canopy of foliage. Its leaves are oval-shaped and long, with a glossy, dark green finish. The bark is thick and dark grey with deep grooves; a somewhat scaly texture similar to oak tree bark.
In autumn, the green foliage turns to a sea of brilliant orange, yellow and red, while the fruit grows and ripens. The bright orange fruit of Fruiting Persimmon Trees can even hang on to the branches after the leaves have fallen off, giving the tree a mysterious, haunting look.
Landscape and Maintenance of Fruiting Persimmon Trees
This magnificent tree enjoys full sun, but can thrive in partial sun as well. It grows best in well-draining, fertile, loamy soil that is even slightly acidic. Fruiting Persimmon Trees don’t need much water, only around an inch per week which is a very moderate rate, and can even be drought tolerant.
As a southwestern United States native, this gorgeous tree can withstand a variety of climatic conditions and is fairly cold hardy. The beautiful fall colors and late season ripening fruit make this tree a perfect addition to your garden and your kitchen.
