N.C. Forest Service - American Persimmon

Selecting a Planting Site for a Medium-Sized Tree

• Choose a location with at least 25 feet of open space.
• Do not plant beneath utility lines, or near streetlights, signs, etc.
• Leave at least 10 feet between the tree, sidewalks and hardscapes.

If you cannot plant your tree in the ground within 24 hours, plant it in a pot with potting soil temporarily so it will survive until you find the right spot.

Notes: Persimmons are hardy in cold weather and can grow to more than 60 feet tall in ideal sites. Persimmons also tolerate poor soils and occasional drought conditions. 

Description: The persimmon is a medium-sized native tree with fragrant flowers and bright yellow fall color. Persimmons have deep taproots and provide excellent erosion control. The tree produces edible fruit that is high in vitamin C and best eaten when fully ripe. The fruit was traditionally used by Native Americans for medicinal purposes.     

Wildlife Benefits: Persimmons are great trees for wildlife and are pollinator friendly! The flowers provide nectar for bees, butterflies and moths, and the fruit is eaten by squirrels, skunks, deer, raccoons, opossums, wild turkey and songbirds. 

Return to STEP TWO: HOW TO PLANT YOUR TREE.