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American Persimmon Tree

Diospyros virginiana

  • Native Persimmon Tree with Sweet Fruit that Ripens to Candy-Like Sweetness on the Branch
  • Cold Hardy: Thrives in Zones 4-9
  • Grows 30-60 ft Tall, 20-40 ft Wide
  • Native, Pollinator-Friendly - Attracts Bees and Butterflies
  • Stunning Orange, Red Fall Foliage
Regular price $9790
Shipping calculated at checkout.
In Stock
Outside your zone (): not guaranteed Why

Rated for zones 4 to 9. Great in a pot brought indoors for winter, or as an annual.

Houseplant: grows indoors in any zone
Will it grow in your garden?

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Plant Size

Specifications

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics Attracts pollinators, Drought resistant, Edible, Flowering, Fast-growing
Hardiness Zone 4a to 9b
Sunlight Full sun
Height 30-60 ft
Width 20-40 ft
Watering Needs Moderate
Preferred Soil Clay, Loamy, Sandy
Growth Rate Moderate
Blooms In Spring, Summer
Flower Color White, Yellow
Fragrant Yes
Native Yes
Native To Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia
+20 moreshow less
Suitable Space Outdoors
Botanical Name Diospyros virginiana
Species virginiana
Class Oxalidales
Does Not Ship To AK, CA, HI, ID, MT, PR
This product has no reviews of its own. The merchant grouped it with related products, so the reviews shown are from across that group.
G
Guest
Shipped and arrived promptly and

Shipped and arrived promptly and tree has thrived since i planted it

Hi,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your wonderful experience! We’re thrilled to hear that your tree arrived promptly and is thriving since you planted it. It’s always our goal to ensure our plants start their new homes with the best possible care right from the shipping process to your planting.

If you ever have any questions about your tree’s care or want tips for continued growth, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to support you on every step of your gardening journey.

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

G
Guest
Shipped and arrived promptly and

Shipped and arrived promptly and tree has thrived since i planted it

Hi,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with us! We're delighted to hear that your tree arrived promptly and that it has been thriving since you planted it. Your success is exactly why we’re passionate about what we do!

If you ever need tips or guidance on continued care to keep your tree healthy, or if you’re considering adding more greenery to your space, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re always here to support your gardening journey.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

E
Erb12
Setting of new trees

I have several persimmon trees on my property right now. I would like to have one closer to the house. How far apart can the trees be set and still bear fruit? Answer from Nature Hills: Honey bees and bumble bees visit persimmon blossoms freely for nectar and pollen. Bees generally distribute pollen although wind can carry the pollen great distances but wind is less dependable than bees for pollination. Planting trees within 25 yards of each other should easily provide insect access for pollination.

Hi Erb12,

Thank you so much for reaching out and sharing your question about planting American Persimmon trees closer to your home! It’s wonderful to hear you’re working to expand your persimmon grove.

You’re on the right track with the spacing considerations. Planting your American persimmon trees within about 25 yards of each other is ideal—it ensures that bees, like honey bees and bumblebees, can effectively transfer pollen between blossoms to support good fruit production. Since these bees are primary pollinators, maintaining a closer distance also helps make the pollination more reliable compared to wind alone.

For best results near the house, select a site that offers full sun and well-draining soil, and avoid areas prone to standing water. Also, keep in mind that proper pruning will promote healthy growth and better fruit yields as the trees mature.

If you’d like, we’re always here to help with planting tips, fertilizing advice, or troubleshooting as your trees establish themselves. Don’t hesitate to contact us anytime!

Rooting for your garden’s success,
Your Nature Hills Plant Care Team

B
Bandit
persimmon

Question: Is there a miniature persimmon? I have a small yard. At a rest stop off an interstate in Virginia, we found ripe persimmons about 1 1/2" in diameter. The tree was about 20 ft tall and about 12 ft in diameter. Answer from Nature Hills: Both the Japanese and the American persimmon tree grow to be about the same size 15 to 25 feet. A recommendation would be the Japanese persimmon called Fuyu as it is the hardest Japanese variety (6b). We do grow many varieties of the Japanese persimmon but none of the American, which is much hardier for growing zones 5a to 5b.

Hello Bandit,

Thank you so much for reaching out with your thoughtful question about miniature persimmons—and for sharing that charming memory from the Virginia rest stop! It’s great to hear how enjoyable persimmons can be in different settings.

While both American and Japanese persimmon trees generally reach similar mature sizes (between 15 and 25 feet tall), we completely understand the need for a smaller option when space is limited. Although there isn’t a true dwarf variety of persimmon commonly available, you might consider growing your Japanese persimmon ‘Fuyu’ or other Japonica types in containers. With careful pruning and container gardening techniques, you can control growth and keep the tree more compact. Choosing espalier training against a wall or fence could also maximize your outdoor space beautifully.

If you’d like, we can provide guidance on suitable container sizes, pruning tips, and fertilization schedules to maintain your tree’s health at a smaller footprint. Feel free to let us know if you'd like more detailed info!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

M
Marti
Gem in disguise

I have a wild persimmon that was about 4 feet tall when I built my house 7 years ago. The builders wanted to remove it but I didn't let them. I had no idea it was a persimmon tree, the builders called it a Junk tree,urban 2 years ago when it developed lovely fruit i was shocked! It's 22ft tall now. There is nothing like it in my neighborhood so I'm wondering how it pollinates? I do have 2 apples, a peach, 3 pears and a plum tree that I planted myself, they are all fruitful as well. The birds love this persimmon tree and it's wonderful to sit under because of its canopy. I'm so glad I chose to keep it! It was a gem in disguise! I don't do a thing to it except I did cut the lower branches so we could sit under it. It's huge!

Hi Marti,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful story and experience with your American Persimmon Tree! It’s truly inspiring to hear that you stood your ground and now have a remarkable 22-foot tree gracing your yard — a true gem indeed. Persimmons can definitely be surprising and rewarding, especially when their value is underestimated at first.

Regarding pollination, American Persimmons are unique because many trees are alternatively male or female, and some are claw trees (also known as shocked trees) whose blossoms can contain both genders, making them self-fruitful. However, cross-pollination often improves fruit size and quantity. With the variety of fruit trees you already have – apples, peaches, pears, and plums – your orchard-like setting is definitely beneficial, even if these species aren’t direct cross-pollinators for persimmons. Some pollination help often comes from insects and native persimmon or closely related varieties nearby, so if your tree fruits so well on its own, that’s a fantastic sign.

To keep your persimmon thriving, light pruning as you’ve been doing is perfect, especially removing lower branches for comfortable seating. Persimmons prefer well-draining soil and benefit from a bit of mulch to retain moisture during dry spells. If you care to learn more or experiment, planting a honeysuckle vine or additional persimmon cultivars nearby may increase pollination and yields further.

We’re so glad you’ve turned that “junk tree” into your own serene spot filled with refreshing fruit and wildlifeW uitsluitend is dear. Thank you again for sharing your journey – it’s what keeps us inspired every day!

Growing with you,
Nature Hills Nursery – Your Trusted Plant Specialists

M
Marti
Gem in disguise

I have a wild persimmon that was about 4 feet tall when I built my house 7 years ago. The builders wanted to remove it but I didn't let them. I had no idea it was a persimmon tree, the builders called it a Junk tree,urban 2 years ago when it developed lovely fruit i was shocked! It's 22ft tall now. There is nothing like it in my neighborhood so I'm wondering how it pollinates? I do have 2 apples, a peach, 3 pears and a plum tree that I planted myself, they are all fruitful as well. The birds love this persimmon tree and it's wonderful to sit under because of its canopy. I'm so glad I chose to keep it! It was a gem in disguise! I don't do a thing to it except I did cut the lower branches so we could sit under it. It's huge!

Hello Marti,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful story and lovely review of your American Persimmon tree! It’s truly heartwarming to hear how you stood your ground to protect what many might have overlooked—your persistence has created a beautiful, thriving gem right in your yard. Your persimmon’s journey from a misunderstood “junk tree” to a 22-foot centerpiece producing fruit is inspiring!

Regarding pollination, American Persimmons can be a little unique. Some trees are now known to be either “dioecious” (needing both male and female trees) or “hermaphroditic” (bearing both kinds of flowers). If your tree fruits on its own, it’s likely of a variety that can self-pollinate, which is wonderful news! Interactions with your nearby fruit trees probably also help increase pollination thanks to the insects and pollinators in your garden. Pitfall: if your wild tree’s fruit is smaller or less consistent some years, having a second persimmon nearby can boost fruit set. You might consider planting a cultivar recommended for your zone if you’re interested in expanding your harvest.

We admire how you’ve trimmed the lower branches for a lovely shaded seating area—a perfect way to connect with this gem of a tree! Keeping enrichment like water during dry periods and a layer of mulch can also support your tree’s ongoing health and flourishing canopy. If you’re ever curious about fertilization schedules or pest management tips specifically for persimmons, feel free to reach out to us!

Thank you again, Marti, for giving your persimmon a chance and celebrating the nature and beauty in your yard.

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

m
mickeymouse
Why a persimmon tree does not bear fruit.

The information on persimmon trees was interesting and helpful. Only one question wasn't answered. I have had my six trees planted for 6 years and there is no fruit. The trees were loaded with flowers this spring and I was sure I would see fruit. Nothing. What is wrong? NHN Response: Please post your question at our gardening community. http://naturehills.com/gardening/. This feature is for reviews only. Sorry!

Hello mickeymouse,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience and feedback about your American Persimmon Trees! We’re glad you found the information interesting and helpful. It’s exciting to hear that your trees were full of blossoms this spring – what a promising sign!

When persimmon trees bloom heavily but don’t bear fruit, a few factors could be at play. First, American Persimmons typically need both a male and female tree for successful cross-pollination, so planting multiple genetically different trees can help if you haven’t already. Secondly, weather conditions during bloom (such as late frosts or heavy rain) can affect fruit set. Additionally, young trees may focus more energy on developing size and roots before producing fruit, even after six years, especially if growing conditions like sun exposure, watering, or soil nutrients aren’t optimal.

Here are some tips to encourage fruiting for your persimmon trees:

1. Ensure full sun exposure—6 hours or more daily.
2. Provide monthly deep watering during dry spells.
3. Use a balanced fertilizer in early spring to support growth, followed by one with phosphorus and potassium to encourage fruit.
4. Consider pruning to remove crowded or dead branches to increase air circulation and light penetration.
5. If only one tree variety is planted, look into planting a compatible pollinator nearby.

For more detailed advice from a grower community, we invite you to discuss this on our Gardening Community forum at http://naturehills.com/gardening/. There, fellow gardeners can share their experiences that closely match yours.

We appreciate your dedication to nurturing your persimmons, and we wish you a fruitful season ahead!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

j
jgfry
Persimmon tree question

What size of persimmon trees do you offer? Do you have a Dallas nursery? From Nature Hills: The persimmon trees are 3 feet tall this year. We do not have a Dallas nursery but can ship product to you via UPS.

Hello jgfry,

Thank you so much for reaching out with your question about our American Persimmon Trees! We’re glad to hear of your interest in these lovely trees. Currently, the persimmon trees we offer are about 3 feet tall this year, which is a great size to start growing a productive and beautiful tree in your garden.

While we don’t have a physical nursery location in Dallas, we’re happy to ship your tree directly to you via UPS. To help it thrive once it arrives, be sure to plant it in a sunny spot with well-draining soil and give it regular waterings, especially during the first growing season.

If you have any other questions or want tips on persimmon care, feel free to reach out to us anytime. We’re here to support your gardening journey every step of the way!

Growing with you,
Nature Hills Nursery – Your Trusted Plant Specialists

J
Jgfry
Persimmon tree question

What size of persimmon trees do you offer? Do you have a Dallas nursery? From Nature Hills: The persimmon trees are 3 feet tall this year. We do not have a Dallas nursery but can ship product to you via UPS.

Dear Jgfry,

Thank you so much for reaching out with your question about our American Persimmon trees! We’re happy to share that our persimmon trees currently stand around 3 feet tall, making them a great size for transplanting into your garden. While we don’t have a physical nursery location in Dallas, we’re pleased to offer shipping directly to you via UPS, so you can enjoy a healthy plant delivered right to your doorstep.

If you’d like, we can provide tips on transplanting and caring for persimmons in your Dallas climate—our experts recommend planting in well-drained soil with full sun exposure, and they generally do well in USDA zones 4-9, which includes Dallas. Feel free to reach out anytime for guidance on acclimating your tree or for seasonal care advice.

We appreciate your interest and wish you much success as you cultivate your garden with this wonderful native pioneer species!

Bloom on,
The Nature Hills Plant Knowledge Team

e
erb12
Setting of new trees

I have several persimmon trees on my property right now. I would like to have one closer to the house. How far apart can the trees be set and still bear fruit? Answer from Nature Hills: Honey bees and bumble bees visit persimmon blossoms freely for nectar and pollen. Bees generally distribute pollen although wind can carry the pollen great distances but wind is less dependable than bees for pollination. Planting trees within 25 yards of each other should easily provide insect access for pollination.

Hello erb12,

Thank you so much for sharing your question with us! It’s wonderful to hear that you already have several American persimmon trees thriving on your property and are looking to enjoy their sweet presence closer to your home.

You're right to think carefully about spacing, as proper pollination is key to getting a good fruit yield. Typically, planting your persimmon tree within 25 yards of others allows plenty of opportunity for pollinators like honey bees and bumblebees to effectively transfer pollen. If you space your trees a bit farther apart, wind can help with pollination, but it’s not as reliable. So, keeping them reasonably close—within about 75 feet—should ensure strong fruit production while giving you that lovely trade-off of branching pronunciation around your home.

Also, place them in a spot with full sun and well-drained soil, ensuring they get nutrient-rich earth for strong growth and healthy fruiting. If you want to explore other care tips, pruning techniques, or run into any challenges, we’re always here to help!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

b
bandit
persimmon

Question: Is there a miniature persimmon? I have a small yard. At a rest stop off an interstate in Virginia, we found ripe persimmons about 1 1/2" in diameter. The tree was about 20 ft tall and about 12 ft in diameter. Answer from Nature Hills: Both the Japanese and the American persimmon tree grow to be about the same size 15 to 25 feet. A recommendation would be the Japanese persimmon called Fuyu as it is the hardest Japanese variety (6b). We do grow many varieties of the Japanese persimmon but none of the American, which is much hardier for growing zones 5a to 5b.

Hello bandit,

Thank you so much for reaching out and sharing your experience with that lovely persimmon tree you spotted! We completely understand the challenge of finding a fruit tree friendly to small yards. While there isn’t a true miniature persimmon variety, the Japanese persimmon ‘Fuyu’ we mentioned is a great option since it stays within a modest 15–20 feet size and is notably hardier. They also produce those delicious sweet fruits similar in size to what you described.

For a small yard, you might consider training your persimmon tree with regular pruning to maintain a manageable shape and size. Container growing can be another option, especially if you choose dwarf rootstock, although persimmons do best planted in well-drained soil outdoors for best fruiting.

If you need additional resources on pruning techniques or container growing for persimmon trees, please let us know—we’d be happy to send helpful guides your way!

Wishing you happy planting,
The Nature Hills Plant Experts

Frequently Asked Questions

Are american persimmon trees self pollinating?

  • American persimmon trees are not self-pollinating and require both male and female trees to produce fruit. Most trees are either male or female, with only female trees bearing the sweet, nutty-flavored persimmons. Plant multiple trees or ensure nearby persimmons exist for reliable fruit production.

What planting zones are suitable for American Persimmon Trees?

  • American Persimmon Trees thrive in USDA zones 4-9, matching their native range across much of the eastern United States. These cold-hardy natives adapt to various climates and soil conditions once established. Shop at Nature Hills for healthy specimens ready to fruit in your landscape.

How tall and wide will my American Persimmon Tree grow at maturity?

  • American Persimmon Trees reach 35-60 feet tall and up to 35 feet wide at maturity. This native species needs plenty of space to develop its full canopy. Plan for at least 35 feet of clearance from structures and other large trees when planting.

What type of soil does an American Persimmon Tree prefer for optimal growth?

  • American Persimmon Trees are remarkably adaptable and thrive in a wide range of soil types. They tolerate everything from sandy to clay soils and handle both wet and dry conditions once established. For best results, plant in well-draining soil with full sun exposure.

Are American Persimmon Trees deer resistant?

  • American Persimmon Trees are not deer resistant and are actually attractive to wildlife for their sweet fruit. Deer will browse both the foliage and fallen persimmons. Consider fencing young trees or plant in less deer-trafficked areas. Shop deer-resistant alternatives at naturehills.com.

Can American Persimmon Trees tolerate drought conditions once established?

  • American Persimmon Trees are quite drought tolerant once their root systems are established, typically after 2-3 years. As a native species, they're naturally adapted to variable rainfall conditions across the eastern United States. Provide regular water during the first few seasons, then they'll handle dry spells well.