Diospyros virginiana #15

American persimmon is a handsome native tree valued for its glossy summer foliage, striking fall color, and exceptional wildlife benefits. In autumn, the leaves turn shades of yellow, orange, and red, followed by distinctive orange fruits on female trees that persist into early winter and add ornamental interest after leaf drop. The overall habit is upright and sturdy, making it well suited for naturalized plantings, orchards, and large landscapes.

This species is dioecious, meaning individual trees are either male or female. Seed-grown trees cannot be sexed at planting, and fruit production is not guaranteed unless a female tree is pollinated by a nearby male. One male tree can pollinate many females, and pollination is handled primarily by insects. Some named, grafted cultivars are known female selections and may fruit without a male, but straight species plants should be planted in multiples if fruit is desired.

American persimmon thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soils, though it is adaptable once established. It has good drought tolerance after establishment and performs best away from compacted or highly alkaline urban soils.

Wildlife value is outstanding. The flowers attract native bees and other pollinators, the fruit is beloved by songbirds, wild turkey, deer, raccoons, and opossums, and the tree serves as a host plant for butterfly larvae, including the luna moth. Deer may browse young trees, but established specimens tend to withstand pressure better.

Why We Love It: A truly American native with four-season interest, unmatched wildlife value, and delicious fruit if you plant with pollination in mind.