About

Diospyros kaki is a broad, deciduous tree characterized by its oval, shiny dark green foliage that can reach lengths of up to 20 cm. In the fall, the leaves transition to shades of yellow, orange, red, and purple. During the summer months, the tree produces small, pale yellow, bell-shaped flowers. Female specimens will bear edible persimmons that can be yellow or orange in color.

About the genus

Diospyros consists of deciduous trees and shrubs characterized by their prominent, often shiny leaves and succulent, vividly colored fruits. The species typically displays small, bell- or urn-shaped flowers, with male and female blooms typically found on different plants.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Loam
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
West-facing, South-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Plant type
Fruit Edible, Trees
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
8-12 metres
Spread
4-8 metres
Time to full height
20-50 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens
Native to
China, Japan, Korea

Care notes

Cultivation
Requires deep, fertile, well-drained, loamy soil in full sun with shelter from cold wind and late spring frosts
Pruning
Pruning group 1
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown as soon as ripe
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to honey fungus (rarely)