tree

American persimmon

Diospyros virginiana

Updated 4 Aug 2026 · AI-parsed entry

American persimmon (Diospyros virginiana) — a tree, for Full sun, Medium water.

What it needs & gives back

↓ Needs

Lightfull sun to partial shade
Watermedium to high

↑ Gives back

Fruitedible fruit
Timberhardwood timber
Shademoderate to dense shade
Mulch_biomasshigh

Through the year

Through the year

JFMAMJJASOND
emergenceBud break and leaf emergence typically occur after the last spring frost and when air temperatures consistently rise above 10°C.
floweringFlowering occurs approximately 30 days after leaf emergence, typically in late spring to early summer.
fruitingFruit development begins after flowering and continues through summer, with ripening occurring in late summer to autumn.
harvestFruits are best harvested after the first few light frosts, which improve their flavor and reduce astringency. Harvest can extend for several weeks.
senescenceLeaves begin to change color and drop after the first autumn frosts and as day length shortens.
dormancyThe tree enters full dormancy after leaf drop, triggered by cold temperatures and short days, lasting through winter.

Soil interactions

Drainagewell-drained to moist
Nitrogen fixingNo
MycorrhizalYes
Accumulatescalcium, potassium
Soil textureloam, sand, clay
Organic matterMedium
Compaction toleranceMedium

Propagation

Methodsseed, root_cuttings, grafting
Difficulty2 / 5
Establishes in~3 yr
Stratificationrequires 60-90 days of cold stratification at 1-5°C
Self-seedingModerate
Divisionlate_winter_early_spring

Wildlife & pests

Attractspollinators, birds, mammals
Can host pestspersimmon psyllid, persimmon borer
Can host diseasespersimmon wilt