The Italian Persimmon (Diospyros kaki) is a classic fruit tree known for its delicious, honey-sweet orange fruits and glossy green foliage. Grown from non-GMO seeds, this ornamental and productive tree is perfect for home gardeners who love rich, flavorful harvests. The tree offers stunning fall colors and is ideal for both edible landscaping and ornamental planting.

Key Features

• Delicious Fruit: Produces smooth, sweet, and flavorful orange persimmons.

• Dual Purpose: Great for fruit production and as an ornamental tree.

• High Germination Rate: Quality non-GMO seeds for healthy growth.

• Cold Hardy: Tolerates light frost once established.

• Low Maintenance: Easy to grow with minimal care.

• Seasonal Beauty: Attractive glossy leaves with golden-orange fall color.

Specifications

• Scientific Name: Diospyros kaki

• Common Name (U.S.): Italian Persimmon / Oriental Persimmon

• Seed Type: Non-GMO, Open-Pollinated

• Plant Type: Deciduous Fruit Tree

• Mature Height: 15–30 feet

• Spread: 15–25 feet

• Growth Rate: Moderate

• Fruit Type: Round to slightly flattened orange fruit

• Fruit Size: 2–4 inches in diameter

• Flesh Flavor: Sweet and honey-like

• Bloom Season: Spring

• Harvest Season: Late Fall

• Sunlight Requirement: Full Sun (6–8 hours daily)

• Soil Type: Well-drained sandy loam

• Soil pH: 6.0–7.5

• Watering Needs: Moderate; prefers evenly moist soil

• Temperature Range: 55°F–90°F (13°C–32°C)

• USDA Hardiness Zones: 7–10

• Days to Germination: 30–60 days

• Organic Status: Non-GMO

• Pollination: Self-pollinating (better yield with cross-pollination)

• Lifespan: 30–50 years

• Special Traits: Cold-hardy, drought-tolerant once established, attractive ornamental foliage

Planting Guide

1. Seed Preparation: Soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours; cold stratify for 60–90 days.

2. Sowing Depth: Plant ½–1 inch deep in well-drained potting mix.

3. Light: Place in a warm, bright location with indirect sunlight.

4. Temperature: Maintain 70°F–85°F (21°C–29°C) for germination.

5. Watering: Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.

6. Transplanting: Move seedlings outdoors after frost when 8–10 inches tall.

7. Spacing: 15–20 feet apart for optimal air circulation.

8. Fertilizing: Use balanced fertilizer once during early growth and again before fruiting.

9. Pruning: Shape young trees to encourage strong branching.