Chinese Persimmon Tree

Chinese persimmon (Diospyros kaki) is a deciduous Asian fruit tree grown for orange fruit and autumn foliage. The fruit can be eaten fresh or used in cooked dishes, and may remain on the branches after the leaves fall. ## Size and siting A mature tree may reach 20–30 feet tall and 15–25 feet wide. Plant in full sun in moist, well-drained soil; loam is suitable, though established trees tolerate a range of soils. It grows in USDA hardiness zones 7a–10b. [NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/diospyros-kaki/common-name/japanese-persimmon/) ## Fruit and landscape Japanese persimmons flower in spring and may take four to six years to begin bearing. Trees are often dioecious, though some have both flower types or set seedless fruit without pollination. A second variety can help when heavier crops are desired. Use the tree in an edible, Asian, or winter garden, a lawn, or a naturalized area; it can also be trained as an espalier or screen. [NC State Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/diospyros-kaki/common-name/japanese-persimmon/) ## Maintenance Annual pruning is not required. Remove root suckers unless a naturalized form is wanted, and allow for cleanup where fallen fruit could be messy.