Texas Persimmon
Diospyros texana

Texas Persimmon

Texas persimmon trees, 10-20 feet tall in Zones 7-9, exhibit slow growth in well-drained soil and full sun. They produce small, edible persimmons and are valued for their adaptability to arid conditions.


Picture illustrating Texas Persimmon Tree

Habit

Tree

Height

3 to 5 m

Growth

Slow

Soil

Well-drained, Sandy Loam

Shade

Full Sun

Moisture

Moderate

Edible

Yes

Medicinal

Yes

Origin

North America

Climatic Condition

Arid, Semi-arid

Temperature (°)

15°C to 25°C

Humidity (%)

50% to 60%

Potting media

50% Loam, 40% Sand, 10% Compost

Fertilizers

Organic Fertilizer

Watering

Regular watering

Plant Weight 

5 to 10 kg

Flowering Time

Spring to Summer

Soil Ph level

6.0 to 7.0

Water Ph level

6.0 to 7.0

Soil EC

0.4 to 0.8 mS/cm

Yield Per Plant 

20 to 30 kg per plant

NPK ratio 

10:10:10

life Span

20 to 40 years

Health Benefits

Antioxidant, High in Tannins

Suggested Grow Media or Potting Mix ?

40% compost, 30% peat moss, 30% perlite


Suggested Fertigation/Fertilizers

Fertilize every 4 weeks with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.

Common Diseases and Remedies

 Brown leaf spot 

 brown patches on the leaves

proper sanitation 

Thiophanate methyl 

What is the Texas Persimmon?

Texas Persimmon Plant: The Texas persimmon (Diospyros texana) is a small deciduous tree native to Texas and parts of Oklahoma, New Mexico, and northern Mexico. It belongs to the beetle family and is known for its deep purple, almost black, sweet fruit.

What Are The Different Types Of Texas Persimmon 

Diospyros texana
Diospyros texana is a shrub/tree found in northern Mexico and central and central Texas. This tree is very common on the Edwards Plateau and is also common in the wild areas around Austin. This tree produces small black berries about a few centimeters in size. When the bark peels off, white, gray and even pink shades appear on the trunk. It grows quite slowly. Unfortunately, it is not compatible with American or Oriental persimmons.

Diospyrus virginiana
The eastern persimmon, Diospyrus virginiana, grows throughout the eastern United States, including much of the eastern third of Texas to the Colorado River. The most important culinary contribution of this wild oyster plant to our region is its excellent performance as a rootstock for grafting large Asian varieties (Diospyrus oysters).

How To Care For Texas persimmon?

Location

Plant Texas persimmons in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.

Sunlight
Texas persimmon plants prefer full sun but will tolerate some shade, especially in hot climates.

Soil
 Prefers well-drained sandy or loamy soils, but will tolerate many soil types, including clay, as long as drainage is adequate.

Hydration
Water young Texas persimmon plants regularly, especially during dry periods. However, once established, it is quite tolerant of drought and requires minimal watering.


Nourishment
Texas persimmon plants usually do not require much additional fertilization when planted in fertile soil. However, you can apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring when growth appears slow or the leaves appear pale.

Issues
 Texas persimmons are relatively easy to care for, but in poorly drained soils they can be susceptible to pests such as aphids and scale insects and diseases such as root rot. Regular examinations and appropriate treatment can help prevent and manage these problems.

What Are The Benefits Of  Texas Persimmon ?
Edible fruit: Texas persimmon produces small, sweet fruits that can be eaten raw or used in jams, jellies, and baked goods.
Wildlife Attraction: Fruit attracts birds and wildlife and contributes to landscape biodiversity.
Drought Tolerant: Texas persimmon plants are highly tolerant of drought conditions once established, making them suitable for arid regions.
Ornamental Value: The tree's dark green foliage and dark purple berries add aesthetic appeal to gardens and landscapes.


FAQs About Growing Texas Persimmons?

How long does it take for a Texas persimmon to bear fruit?
Texas persimmon trees typically begin producing fruit within 3 to 5 years of being planted, but it may take longer for the fruit to reach full maturity. It may take some time.

When is the best time to prune a Texas persimmon tree?
Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Remove dead, damaged, and crossing branches and reshape the tree as needed.

Can Texas persimmon fruit be eaten while still hard?
Texas persimmon fruit is best enjoyed when fully ripe and soft, as it is very astringent while still hard. .

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