Persimmon- Diospyros virginiana

Phonetic: dy-OS-pe-res ver-jin-ee-AY-nah

18-24" Bare Root

Persimmon, is a hardy deciduous tree native to the eastern and central United States. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soils, though it can adapt to a variety of conditions—including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. While it tolerates occasional drought once established, Persimmon grows best in moist, slightly acidic soils and open areas where it can receive ample sunlight.

In late spring to early summer, American persimmon produces small, fragrant, bell-shaped flowers that are creamy white to yellow. These blossoms attract numerous pollinators, particularly native bees and other beneficial insects. The tree is dioecious, meaning that male and female flowers occur on separate trees—only females produce the distinctive orange fruits that ripen in fall. The fruits are highly attractive to wildlife such as deer, foxes, raccoons, opossums, and over 20 bird species, including wild turkeys and cedar waxwings. In addition to its fruit value, Persimmon serves as a host plant for several species of butterfly and moth including  the Luna moth  and the Royal Walnut Moth, which rely on its leaves during their larval stages.

In gardens and landscapes, American persimmon is prized for its ornamental form, glossy green foliage, and striking fall color, as well as its sweet, edible fruit. It makes an excellent addition to native plant gardens, wildlife corridors, and naturalized areas, where it supports local biodiversity. Ecologically, the tree plays a vital role in sustaining food webs—providing nectar for pollinators, leaves for caterpillars, and fruit for birds and mammals.

• Hardiness Zone: 4-9
• Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Part Sun, Part Shade  
• Native Region: BONAP Map
• BONAP Map Key Color Guide: Map Color Key
• Flower Color: Yellow, 
• Bloom Time:  April, May, June 
• Soil Type: Moist, Medium, Medium Dry
• Mature Plant Size: 30-80'H 20-35'W
• Plant Spacing: 20-30'
• Host Plant: Luna Moth, Royal Walnut Moth, Sculptured Moth, Tersa Sphinx Moth
• Attracts: Pollinators, Butterflies, Host Plant, Hummingbirds
• Advantages: Deer Resistant, Salt Tolerant, Poor Soil Tolerant 
• Landscape Uses: Pollinator Garden, Rain Garden,
• Companion Plants: Flowering Dogwood, Wild Strawberry