Diospyros virginiana (Common Persimmon)
Common Persimmon is a deciduous tree that can be either a low growing, shrubby tree or a large tree (up to 80 ft in rich moist soil), depending on the growing conditions. It is best known by its sweet fruit that tastes somewhat like dates. It is very astringent when not ripe, but after being exposed to frost or consistent low temperatures, the fruit becomes edible. Two trees are necessary for the production of fruit. It can form colonies via suckers.
Common Persimmon is tolerant of shade. It grows best in moist, rich soils. Native habitat includes dry wooded areas, fields, and clearings.
The fruit is eaten by many species of song birds, also by the skunk, raccoon, opossum, gray and fox squirrels, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, bobwhite, crows, and rabbits. Deer browse readily on persimmon sprouts.
AT A GLANCE
| Texas native | Yes |
| Water use | Low |
| Sun exposure | Full sun to part shade |
| Bloom color | White, green |
| Bloom time | Spring |
| Mature height | 15-80 ft |
| Attracts | Birds, moths, mammals |
| Host plant | Luna moth |
| Edible | Yes, fruit |
DISTRIBUTION MAPS
 Present in state |
 Present in county and native |
 Native to North America, but adventive & escaped in state |
 Not present in state |
 Present and rare, native in county |
 Previously present, now extinct |
 Questionable presence (cross-hatched, regardless of color) |