Common Persimmon Diospyros virginiana is a small native tree (25’ X 12’) tolerant of most soil conditions. The leaves turn yellow to red in autumn, adding attractive fall color to the landscape. Because the species is dioecious, both male and female plants must be present for female specimens to produce fruit.
The fruit, which ripens with the first frost, is a favorite of many mammals and birds. Whitetail Deer, Red Fox, and Raccoon are drawn to the ripened fruit as are the American Robin, Gray Catbird, and Pileated Woodpecker. Common Persimmon also is a host plant for the Henry’s Elfin caterpillar.