Diospyros virginiana, Persimmon seedling Cricket Hill Garden

Diospyros virginiana

Variety description: Persimmons are valued because of their hardiness, adaptability to a wide range of soils and climates, lustrous leaves, abundant crop of fruits, and immunity from disease and insects. Native to the eastern United States, persimmons grow in the wild from Connecticut to Florida and west to Kansas.

Large, glossy leathery leaves and attractive checked grey bark make for good landscape interest. Persimmons also sport spectacular fall color, from yellow to crimson.

Diospyros, which translates to “food of the gods” from Greek, is apt name for this genus which produces such delicious fruit. American persimmons, though generally small in size, are luscious sweet when fully ripe, with a jellylike texture and a rich honeyed flavor redolent of a spiced apricot.

In most cases, both a male and female tree are required to produce fruit. To ensure a good mix of male and female trees, it’s advisable to plant several seedling trees. These seedlings are of northern origin.

Site requirements: Persimmons grow best in a full sun location with fertile, well-drained soil. They are quite adaptable and will grow in poor, dry soils, though such sites are far from ideal.

Size at maturity: Under cultivation and with pruning, trees can be maintained at 15′. A wild or untrained persimmon will reach 30′.

Pests and diseases: None of concern in the Northeast.

Hardiness: Will grow in USDA zones 5-9.

Plant size: 1 year old seedling, about 12-18” tall with a well developed root system. Will likely produce fruit in 4-5 years if given good care.

When we ship: SPRING 2024

Shipping restrictions: Cannot ship to California.