Diospyros virginiana (American persimmon)

Maryland DNR Recommended Tree

The common persimmon is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree with distinctive thick, dark gray bark that is divided into plates. The tree prefers light, sandy, well-drained soil. It grows to 35–60' tall. Plants are usually dioecious (separate male and female trees), but some trees have "perfect" flowers—both male and female on the same plant. Fragrant, white to greenish-yellow flowers bloom in late Spring. The fruits mature in Fall to an orange to reddish-purple color, and may persist on the tree into Winter. Fruits are astringent until ripe, but once ripe the pulp is commonly are used in syrups, jellies, ice creams, or pies. Ripe fruits are too soft for shipping/sale. Persimmon leaves can be used to make teas. We cannot guarantee the male or female ID on this plant.

The persimmon tree is native to southeastern U.S., with the northern limit of its range in the mid-Atlantic. It is widespread and common in Maryland. The fruit is an important food source for foxes, raccoons, oppossums, skunks, and birds. Host plant for various moth species, including the sculptured moth and the tersa sphinx moth. The persimmon tree is native to southeastern U.S., with the northern limit of its range in the mid-Atlantic. It is widespread and common in Maryland. The fruit is an important food source for foxes, raccoons, oppossums, skunks, and birds. Host plant for various moth species, including the sculptured moth and the tersa sphinx moth.

BONAP Native Range Map (bright green indicates county native, dark green indicates state native)