Common Persimmon (Diospyros virginiana)

Diospyros virginiana

Common/American persimmon is a deciduous tree native to eastern North America. It is valued for its glossy, dark green leaves, subtle spring flowers, and distinctive orange fruits that ripen in fall and persist into winter. The fruit is an important food source for wildlife and becomes sweet and edible after frost. Adaptable to a wide range of soils and growing conditions, common persimmon is a hardy, low-maintenance species well suited for naturalized landscapes, woodland edges, and habitat plantings. 

Note: D. virginiana is dioecious (separate male and female trees). To ensure fruit production, multiple trees are recommended (5+)

Origin: Native to eastern United States south of Michigan 

Current Sale Size: 18-24", bare-root seedling, unsexed

Growth Rate: Slow (12" or less/yr)

Soils: Well-drained sand, loam, clay

Moisture: Dry to Mesic

Shade Tolerance: Sun to Part Shade

Mature Height: 30-80 ft.

Mature Width: 20-35 ft.

Deer Damage Potential: High

Uses: Fall color, ornamental, wildlife, food, fragrance, pollinators, birds

Special Notes: Drought tolerant species. Transplanting can be difficult due to deep taproot.

Visit for more information:

City of Ann Arbor: Tree Information Card

Missouri Botanical Gardens

USDA Plants Database