North American Persimmon (Diospyros virginiana) is a cold-hardy deciduous fruit tree native to the eastern United States. Known for its fragrant spring flowers, glossy foliage, and striking orange fruits, it offers ornamental beauty and edible rewards. The fruits ripen in fall and develop a rich, honey-sweet flavor after the first frost.

This Non-GMO native fruit tree is easy to grow and well-adapted to a range of climates and soils. The American Persimmon provides food for both people and wildlife, making it a great addition to home orchards, native restoration plantings, and edible landscapes.

Features

• Produces sweet, orange, honey-flavored fruits after frost
• Non-GMO and cold-hardy native fruit tree
• Tolerant of drought and poor soils once established
• Attractive ornamental tree with glossy foliage
• Excellent for wildlife, pollinators, and edible gardens
• Long-lived and low-maintenance

Specifications

• Scientific Name: Diospyros virginiana
• Common Name: American Persimmon / North American Persimmon
• Plant Type: Deciduous fruit tree
• Growth Height: 30–60 feet
• Spread: 20–35 feet
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 4–9
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Type: Well-drained loam or sandy soil; tolerant of clay and poor soils
• Bloom Season: Spring (May–June)
• Fruit Season: Fall (September–November)
• Flower Color: Creamy white to yellow
• Fruit Color: Deep orange to amber when ripe
• Foliage: Glossy green turning golden-orange in fall
• GMO Status: Non-GMO
• Planting Season: Spring or fall
• Sowing Depth: ½–1 inch
• Germination Time: 60–120 days (cold stratification for 90 days recommended)
• Watering Needs: Moderate; drought-tolerant when mature
• Maintenance: Minimal pruning; pest- and disease-resistant
• Pollination: Usually dioecious (plant two for best fruit set)
• Wildlife Benefits: Attracts deer, birds, and pollinators
• Uses: Edible gardens, home orchards, reforestation, native landscapes

Planting Guide

• Cold Stratify: Refrigerate seeds in moist medium for 90 days before planting.
• Prepare Soil: Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil.
• Sow Seeds: Plant ½–1 inch deep and keep soil evenly moist.
• Light: Full sun promotes stronger growth and more fruit.
• Watering: Maintain regular moisture during germination and early growth.
• Spacing: 20–30 feet apart for mature trees.
• Care: Prune in late winter to shape and improve airflow.