Plant library · Fruit Trees
Diospyros kaki
Asian persimmon is a perennial fruit tree that brings a strong vertical presence to an edible landscape, reaching about 25 feet tall and 15 feet wide. Glossy foliage carries the canopy through the growing season, then orange fruit ripens from late fall into early winter, often after leaf drop. Use it where that late display has room to be seen rather than squeezed into a mixed border.
Give this tree a sunny, open position at the outer side of a food garden, lawn, or naturalized planting, where its rounded canopy will not overhang a narrow path or patio. Keep the fruiting canopy away from regular foot and vehicle traffic so dropped fruit does not complicate circulation. A sheltered site also helps protect spring bloom from late frosts, while leaving enough working room to prune, water, and harvest around the tree.[1][2]
Plant Asian persimmons 20 feet apart, center to center. Although the mature canopy is about 15 feet wide, that interval leaves a useful buffer between neighboring trees for light, ladder access, and a distinct canopy edge. Set the trunk well back from beds that need full sun through summer; its 25-foot height makes it better suited behind lower fruiting plants and permanent edging.
Choose full sun and soil that drains well while holding even moisture. Moderate watering fits best as regular, measured irrigation during dry stretches rather than a site that stays wet. Deep, loamy ground is especially suitable, but the planting area should drain freely and remain accessible for watering at the root zone.[1][2][3]
Late-spring to early-summer bloom makes spring frost pockets a poor fit. Plan the harvest zone for late fall to early winter, when fruit can remain conspicuous after the leaves fall. Maintain a clear surface beneath the canopy during that period, since fallen fruit can create a messy landing area and make routine passage less convenient.[1][2]
Asian persimmon is suited to USDA Zones 7 through 10. Allow for a permanent tree position rather than treating it as a fill-in around future structures or expanded vegetable beds. Remove root suckers promptly if a single-trunk tree and clean planting outline are the goal; leaving them changes the tree’s footprint and can crowd nearby planting space.[1][2]
Editorial content updated 2026-07-20.