American Persimmon

About this plant

Standing as a quintessential symbol of American autumns, the American Persimmon (Diospyros virginiana) offers both beauty and bounty. This hardy, native fruit tree is celebrated for its delectable, bright orange fruits that ripen to a soft, juicy sweetness after the first frost, perfect for fresh eating or culinary creations. Beyond its culinary delights, the American Persimmon is a landscape standout. Its deep green, glossy leaves provide welcome shade in summer, transforming into a spectacular display of oranges, reds, and purples in the fall. The rough, checkered bark adds textural interest even in winter, making it a year-round asset. Extremely adaptable and low-maintenance, this tree thrives in a wide range of conditions, tolerating everything from urban environments to dry, sandy soils. It's an excellent choice for edible landscapes, wildlife gardens, or as a striking ornamental specimen.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Easily grown in average, well-drained soil. Best fruit production occurs in full sun. While tolerant of dry conditions once established, regular watering during dry spells, especially when young, will promote better growth and fruit development. Pruning is generally not required beyond removing dead, damaged, or crossing branches to maintain a strong structure. Fruits ripen after the first hard frost, becoming soft and sweet. A dioecious species, both male and female trees are typically needed for fruit production, though some varieties are self-fertile or produce small amounts of fruit without a pollinator.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.