Tree
Common Persimmon
Diospyros virginiana
Features
Dark green summer foliage that changes to yellow or reddish-purple in autumn; pale orange fruit (on female trees) in fall, edible upon ripening (after frost); thick, blocky bark.
Culture
Full sun; moist, well-drained soil, but tolerant of drought; pH adaptable.
Cultivars
There are cultivars available, but most have been selected for fruit production rather than landscape value.
Mature Height
35-60 Feet
Size
Medium
Large
Mature Form
Oval
Native To:
United States (and Illinois)
USDA Hardiness Zone
5 - 9
Soil Conditions
Dry
Moist, Well-Drained
Tolerance
Dry Sites
Wind
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Sun
Uses
Shade
Foliage Color
Green
Fall Foliage Color
Purple
Yellow
Pests and Problems
Environmental Damage
Fungal Disease
Insect Damage
Insect Relative Damage
Additional pests and problems that may affect this plant:
Fall webworm is a common insect, but does little damage. Persimmon can sucker and form colonies if not well maintained.
Additional Notes
Difficult to transplant due to taproot; male and female flowers on separate trees so both must be present for fruit to be produced.
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
The Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide (C1391) provides is written for homeowners and other residents and provides nonchemical and current chemical recommendations for controlling pests associated with trees, shrubs, turf, flowers, groundcovers, vegetables, fruit, and houses. In addition, you'll find detailed information about integrated pest management, pesticide safety, and pesticide application and calibration techniques. This publication may be purchased at your local University of Illinois Extension Unit office, or by calling 800-345-6087, or by placing an order online (search for "C1391").
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Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
The Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook (ICLT) is written for professional applicators and provides nonchemical and current chemical recommendations as well as application timing information for all major pests of turf, woody ornamentals and herbaceous ornamentals. This publication may be purchased at your local University of Illinois Extension Unit office, or by calling 800-345-6087, or by placing an order online (search for "ICLT").
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U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
A free plant, weed, insect and disease identification service available through your local University of Illinois Extension office. Center Educators or State Specialists review & respond to information and digital images submitted by local Extension office personnel. Some samples may require further examination or culture work (nominal fee involved) at the U of IL Plant Clinic.
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U of IL - Plant Clinic
Services include plant and insect identification, diagnosis of disease, insect, weed and chemical injury (chemical injury on field crops only), nematode assays, and help with nutrient related problems, as well as recommendations involving these diagnoses. Microscopic examinations, laboratory culturing, virus assays, and nematode assays are some of the techniques used in the clinic.
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