Japanese Persimmon

(Diospyros kaki)

Japanese Persimmon (Diospyros kaki)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Diospyros kaki, commonly known as Japanese Persimmon, is a deciduous tree native to China where it has been in cultivation for over 2,000 years. It was introduced to Japan and Korea in the 7th and 14th centuries respectively. It can be found in forest margins, open woodlands, and farmsteads where it enjoys generally mild climates. The tree resembles an apple tree in shape and can reach up to 10 meters (33 ft) in height. It does not typically bear fruit until 3 to 6 years of age. The creamy white flowers, 2.0 to 2.5 cm (0.8 to 1.0 in) wide, bloom in late spring or early summer and vary in color; female flowers are solitary, while male flowers may have a pink tint and appear in clusters. Diospyros kaki is usually dioecious, with separate male and female trees, but some cultivated varieties are monoecious with both sexes on one tree, including perfect flowers. Seedless fruit is produced parthenocarpically, but pollination can increase fruit yield and seed presence. Fruit drop is significant, with two main periods of loss, one after flowering and another in August. The edible fruit ripens in late autumn, becoming sweet and slightly tangy with a soft to fibrous texture.

Japanese Persimmon is valued for its sweet fruit and is often used in fruit production, ornamental plantings, and as a specimen tree in gardens. It is known for its striking appearance when laden with fruit after leaf fall. The tree requires full sun and adapts to various soil types with slow to fast drainage. It is moderately drought-tolerant but benefits from regular watering to reduce fruit drop. While generally easy to maintain, it can suffer from pests like persimmon psylla and diseases such as anthracnose.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Trees
  • Height: 20-30 feet
  • Width: 20-30 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Street Planting

Natural Habitat

Forest margins and open woodlands

Other Names

Common Names: Kaki , Chinese Persimmon , Oriental Persimmon , Sharon Fruit , 감나무 , 柿 , Kaki Persimmon

Scientific Names: Diospyros kaki , Diospyros kaki var. silvestris , Diospyros kaki var. kaki , Diospyros roxburghii , Diospyros kaempferi , Diospyros sphenophylla , Diospyros sinensis , Diospyros schi-tse , Diospyros argyi , Diospyros chinensis

GBIF Accepted Name: Diospyros kaki L.f.