The Italian Persimmon (Diospyros lotus), also called Dateplum, is a hardy deciduous fruit tree native to southern Europe and Asia. These non-GMO persimmon seeds produce elegant trees with glossy green leaves, fragrant spring flowers, and clusters of small, sweet, date-like fruits that ripen to golden-brown in late autumn.
Renowned for its adaptability and ornamental value, the Italian Persimmon is both a decorative and fruit-bearing tree that thrives in mild to warm climates. It’s often used as a rootstock for grafting modern persimmon varieties and is prized for its resilience and longevity.
Key Features
- Produces small, sweet, date-flavored persimmon fruits
- Hardy, non-GMO fruit tree ideal for Mediterranean and temperate regions
- Glossy foliage and ornamental form make it a landscape standout
- Drought-tolerant once established
- Excellent for edible landscaping, orchards, or ornamental use
Specifications
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Italian Persimmon / Dateplum |
| Scientific Name | Diospyros lotus |
| Plant Type | Deciduous Fruit Tree |
| Growth Habit | Upright, rounded canopy |
| Heirloom | Yes |
| GMO Status | Non-GMO |
| Organic | Naturally untreated seed form |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | 6–9 |
| Sunlight Requirement | Full Sun |
| Soil Type | Well-drained loam or sandy soil |
| Soil pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Season | Spring or fall planting |
| Watering | Moderate; prefers deep, infrequent watering |
| Days to Germination | 30–90 days (cold stratification beneficial) |
| Mature Height | 20–40 feet |
| Spread | 15–25 feet |
| Flower Color | Creamy white to yellow (spring) |
| Fruit Color | Golden to brownish-orange when ripe |
| Pollination | Partially self-fertile; higher yield with cross-pollination |
| Maintenance | Low; prune during dormancy for shape and vigor |
| Special Features | Drought-tolerant, ornamental foliage, edible fruit, rootstock use |
Planting Guide
- Seed Preparation: Stratify seeds for 60–90 days in moist sand or peat at 35–40°F before planting.
- Planting Depth: Sow seeds ½–1 inch deep in well-drained soil.
- Temperature: Maintain 70–80°F after stratification for germination.
- Transplanting: Move outdoors after frost risk passes; plant in full sun.
- Watering: Keep soil moist during establishment, then reduce frequency.
- Care: Prune lightly during winter to shape the tree and encourage fruiting.
