Japanese Persimmon (Diospyros Kaki)

Japanese Persimmon Plant (Diospyros Kaki), a deciduous tree with a spreading crown clothed in shiny, dark green, oval leaves 8 in. long (20 cm), is both long-lived and amazingly beautiful. In the fall, they turn yellow, orange, or reddish-purple, making a spectacular display. After the leaves emerge in the spring, pale yellow bell-shaped flowers appear and go largely unnoticed. They are accompanied by a profusion of edible yellow or orange persimmon fruit, around the size of a medium-sized tomato, on female trees. When the leaves have fallen from the tree, bright fruits are visible in the canopy.

They attract wildlife and can last for weeks on the tree, looking like Christmas ornaments. Until fully ripe, the flesh is bitter and astringent, then it becomes tender, sweet, and friendly. Japanese Persimmon is an excellent fruit tree for ornamental use and makes an excellent specimen.