Diospyros kaki Fuyu - Persimmon

The Fuyu apple persimmon is a self-fertile variety of Diospyros kaki, the Persimmon tree. It is both a fruit tree and an ornamental tree, producing orange fruits the size of an apple from late October, seedless, with sweet flesh and rich in vitamin C. The Fuyu apple persimmon is non-astringent and can be eaten firm, directly after harvest. A productive variety with particularly attractive ornamental features in autumn, with its foliage turning vibrant red.

The Fuyu apple persimmon produces flattened fruits the size of a mandarin, with thin skin and a sweet flavor, in a reddish-orange colour. The tender and melting flesh does not contain any seeds, making it botanically a berry. The fruits of the Fuyu apple persimmon can be harvested from late October and can be picked when firm, unlike the typical species (Diospyros kaki) whose fruits are harvested when soft. Indeed, Fuyu apples have the particularity of not being astringent in the mouth. However, it is also possible to let them blet on the tree to further enhance their sugar content. The fruits can be cooked into jam or compote, eaten raw in salad with or without cream, or dried in the same way as figs. Explore all the different flavors that this fruit offers.

The Persimmon tree (Dyospiros kaki) is native to China, with a rounded habit, reaching a height of 6 to 10 meters (20 to 33 feet) and a width of 5 to 7 meters (16 to 23 feet). Its growth is rather slow. Belonging to the family Ebenaceae, its wood is very hard. The leaves of the Persimmon tree are elongated, about fifteen centimeters long, and have a shiny green colour. The Fuyu apple persimmon is suitable for our latitudes and is hardy down to -15°C (5°F), although occasional severe frosts in eastern regions can weaken it. It is a productive and self-fertile variety. The flowering is late, appearing in May-June, in the form of small insignificant yellow flowers, which will be pollinated by insects.

Planting is done in autumn-winter, frost-free, or alternatively in spring with regular watering. Choose a very sunny and sheltered location. The Chinese Persimmon tree thrives in all types of soils, preferably acidic. It prefers well-drained and rich soils. If you plant multiple plants, space them 5 to 7 meters (16 to 23 feet) apart in all directions.

This beautiful genus name, Diospyros, comes from Greek and means "fruit of the gods"!

For transportation reasons, our tallest scions may be pruned before shipping. They are suitable for all common training sizes: cordons, espaliers, goblets, half-standards, and low standards, except for high standards. If you would like more information or advice on training your fruit trees, please do not hesitate to contact us.