Japanese persimmon - Diospyros kaki (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Edible)

Japanese persimmon

Also known as: Kaki persimmon, Chinese persimmon

The japanese persimmon tree adds interest and flavor to your edible landscape. These deciduous trees are easy to grow, but do not tolerate very cold temperatures. Blooms appear in mid-spring, and the distinctive persimmon fruit and brightly colored foliage last through the fall. Japanese persimmon fruit can be eaten raw or cooked. They have been cultivated for over 2,000 years in China.

Scientific classification

Species

Japanese persimmon (Diospyros kaki)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer

Bloom Time

Fall, Early winter, Mid winter

Harvest Time

10 m to 14 m

Plant Height

10 m to 13 m

Spread

Green, Yellow, Red, Orange, Purple

Leaf Color

2 cm to 2.5 cm

Flower Size

Orange

Fruit Color

Yellow, Cream

Flower Color

Silver, Gray

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

10 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Moderate

Growth Rate

Images of Japanese persimmon

Distribution of Japanese persimmon

Distribution Map

Japanese persimmon is a plant native to East Asia and the Indo-Malaya region, flourishing across temperate and subtropical zones. It has been introduced successfully to parts of the Near East, South America, and Eastern Europe. Widely cultivated, japanese persimmon has adapted to various climates, extending its presence in both naturalized and managed landscapes outside its indigenous range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Broad leafed woodland

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Japanese persimmon is a deciduous fruit and ornamental tree famous and widely grown for its oval, vibrantly orange, edible fruits. Besides the fruit, it is cultivated for its ornamental value - its finely shaped canopy has elongated, dark green leaves that turn yellow, orange, and reddish-purple in the autumn. There are separate male and female japanese persimmon trees in most cases, so make sure you have both in your garden or neighborhood if you plan on collecting fruits.

Symbolism

Changing sex, Healing, Luck

Interesting Facts

Though various types of persimmon grow native in the Americas, Asia, and certain Pacific islands, japanese persimmon is by far the most commonly cultivated around the world. In Israel, a cultivar of the species, usually called "sharon fruit," has been developed that features no seeds or core and can thus be eaten whole.

Name Story

Japanese persimmon: The genus name, Diospyros, is a mashup of Greek words meaning "divine wheat" or "divine grain," and is meant to highlight the fruit's heavenly flavor. "Kaki," the word used as the specific epithet when japanese persimmon was given its scientific name, is simply the Japanese word for the plant.

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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Japanese persimmon, including the following common varieties :

Japanese persimmon 'Jiro'

Quickly Identify Japanese persimmon

Distinctive bark pattern: deeply fissured, forming rectangular shapes.

Floral dimorphism: creamy-white solitary female flowers, pinkish cluster male flowers.

Vibrant orange fruit with star-like patterns upon cutting.

Seasonal leaf color change: yellow-green to red with pronounced veins.

Gray woody stems: alternate branching, leaf scars, occasional lenticels.

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Care Guide for Japanese persimmon

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Japanese persimmon thrives in moderate water conditions, needing watering every 1-2 weeks. Originating from humid subtropical regions, it benefits from rainfall during its growing season, aiding in moisture level maintenance, reflecting its status as an evergreen often grown outdoors.

Fertilize: Fertilize japanese persimmon with balanced NPK fertilizers every 3-4 weeks during spring and summer, adjusting based on size. Water japanese persimmon before fertilizing to aid absorption. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent root burn and cease applications in winter dormancy for optimal growth and fruiting.

Pruning: Japanese persimmon produces unique orange fruits and glossy leaves. Effective pruning involves removing dead branches, thinning for airflow, and shaping the canopy, ideally done in late winter. This practice encourages healthier growth, enhances sunlight access, increases fruit yield, and improves japanese persimmon's appearance.

Propagation: Japanese persimmon is propagated via cuttings from healthy, semi-hardwood stems treated with rooting hormone. Place cuttings in a well-draining soil mix, maintaining consistent moisture and warm, indirect light for optimal growth. Proper care during this phase fosters a strong root system for thriving young japanese persimmon.

Repotting: Repot japanese persimmon every 2-3 years in early spring using a wide container. After repotting, ensure well-draining soil, consistent watering, and avoid direct sunlight for a week. Regular pruning enhances shape and supports recovery.

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Images of Japanese persimmon

Distribution of Japanese persimmon

Culture

Cultivars

Quickly Identify Japanese persimmon

Care Guide for Japanese persimmon

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