American Persimmon

(Common Persimmon)

Diospyros Virginiana

A medium sized tree native to central and eastern USA. The only native species of the Ebony family with hard, almost black heartwood making it popular in carpentry. Often planted as an ornamental due to its large orange fruit persisting into the winter and foliage that turns yellow to purple in fall. The ripe fruit is very sweet and often eaten fresh from the tree or used in a variety of baked goods. Production should begin after 5 to 10 years. Each tree has either male or female flowers so at least 2 trees must be planted; more is better.