Diospyros kaki Jiro (Japanese Persimmon)
One of the most cold-hardy kaki varieties, Diospyros kaki 'Jiro' (Japanese Persimmon) is a deciduous tree with a spreading crown clothed in glossy, dark green, oval leaves. They turn yellow, orange, or reddish-purple in the fall, creating a glorious display. Pale yellow, bell-shaped flowers appear after the leaves emerge in the spring and mostly go unnoticed. They are followed by a profusion of edible, medium to large, round, yellow to orange persimmon fruits. Jiro sets fruit without the need for pollination but planting two cultivars is recommended to ensure a bountiful crop. The tree is a sight to behold when the leaves have fallen, displaying the bright fruits throughout the canopy. They attract wildlife and may persist on the tree for weeks, resembling Christmas ornaments. Non-astringent, the fruit is seedless, mild-flavored, sweet, and can be eaten in its firm state like an apple or allowed to ripen to a soft, mushy texture. Valued for its fruit and attraction to wildlife, the Japanese Persimmon is an excellent fruit tree for ornamental use and makes an excellent specimen.
- Grows up to 12-15 ft. tall and wide (3-5 m).
- A full sun lover, this tree is easily grown in deep, fertile, well-drained soils. Moist soil is preferred. Shelter from cold wind and late spring frosts. Drought tolerant once established.
- Virtually pest and disease free.
- No routine pruning is necessary. Remove diseased, damaged, congested or crossing shoots.
- Propagate by seed sown as soon as ripe.
- Promptly remove root suckers unless a naturalized effect is desired.
- Native to China, Japan, and Korea.
Requirements
Hardiness | 6 – 9 |
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Heat Zones | 7 – 10 |
Climate Zones | 6, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1 |
Plant Type | Fruit, Trees |
Plant Family | Diospyros – Persimmons |
Exposure | Full Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Mid,Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)FallWinter |
Height | 12' – 15' (3.6m – 4.5m) |
Spread | 12' – 15' (3.6m – 4.5m) |
Water Needs | Average |
Maintenance | Low |
Soil Type | Loam |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Showy, Fruit & Berries |
Tolerance | Drought |
Attracts | Birds |
Garden Uses | Wall-Side Borders |
Garden Styles | City and Courtyard, Informal and Cottage |