Diospyros virginiana L. Common Persimmon

Abstract

Common persimmon (Diospyros virginiana), also called simmon, possumwood, and Florida persimmon, is a slow-growing tree of moderate size found on a wide variety of soils and sites. Best growth is in the bottom lands of the Mississippi River Valley. The wood is close grained and sometimes used for special products requiring hardness and strength. Persimmon is much better known for its fruits, however. They are enjoyed by people as well as many species of wildlife for food. The glossy leathery leaves make the persimmon tree a nice one for landscaping, but it is not easily transplanted because of the taproot.

Citation

Halls, Lowell K. 1981. Diospyros virginiana L. Common Persimmon. In: Silvics of North America. Hardwoods. Agric . Handb. 654. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of Agriculture: 294-298. Vol. 2.