Persimmions

Native American Persimmon Tree for Sale – Missouri Native Persimmon (Diospyros virginiana)

The Native American Persimmon Tree (Diospyros virginiana) is one of the most fascinating and valuable native fruit trees found throughout Missouri and much of the eastern United States. Known for its sweet orange fruits, beautiful fall color, and wildlife benefits, this hardy tree is a fantastic addition to homesteads, food forests, and natural landscapes.

This particular persimmon tree is not grafted, which means it grows naturally from seed and makes an excellent choice for grafting improved persimmon varieties later. Many growers plant native persimmon seedlings as rootstock before grafting larger-fruited cultivars.

You can browse our full nursery selection anytime here: Explore our full collection of trees and plants.

Why Plant a Native American Persimmon Tree?

Native persimmon trees have been valued for centuries for their fruit, wildlife benefits, and durability.

1. Produces sweet orange persimmon fruit in fall
2. A native tree that grows naturally across Missouri
3. Excellent wildlife food source
4. Beautiful fall foliage color
5. Great rootstock tree for grafting improved persimmon varieties

Because they are native trees, American Persimmons are extremely hardy and adapted to many different climates and soils.

A Native Fruit Tree Loved by Wildlife

The American Persimmon tree produces small orange fruits that ripen in the fall after frost. When fully ripe, the fruit becomes soft and incredibly sweet.

Wildlife such as deer, raccoons, opossums, foxes, and birds all enjoy persimmon fruit. Because of this, many landowners plant persimmons as part of a wildlife habitat planting.

Native fruit trees also pair well with other native species such as the Black Cherry Tree or native shade trees like the Red Oak Tree.

Great Rootstock for Grafting Persimmon Varieties

One of the biggest advantages of a seed-grown persimmon tree is that it can be used as a rootstock for grafting improved persimmon varieties.

Many orchard growers plant native persimmon seedlings first, then graft named cultivars onto them later to produce larger or more consistent fruit.

Because native persimmon trees are extremely hardy, they make a very reliable root system for grafted trees.

Mature Size and Growth Rate

American Persimmon trees grow into strong medium to large shade trees.

1. Height: 30 to 60 feet tall
2. Width: 20 to 35 feet wide
3. Growth rate: Moderate
4. Shape: Upright with a rounded crown

If you are looking for additional large shade trees for your property, you may also want to explore trees such as the Tulip Poplar Tree or the fast-growing Silver Maple Tree.

Growing Conditions for American Persimmon Trees

Native persimmon trees are extremely adaptable and grow well across a wide range of climates.

1. USDA Zones 4 through 9
2. Full sun for best fruit production
3. Adaptable to many soil types
4. Drought-tolerant once established

For best success after planting, we recommend reading our guide here: How to Care for Your New Tree.

When Is the Best Time to Plant a Persimmon Tree?

The best time to plant most fruit and shade trees is during spring or fall when cooler temperatures help roots establish quickly.

Learn more about ideal planting times here: When Is the Best Time to Plant a New Tree?.

Landscaping and Homestead Uses for Persimmon Trees

The American Persimmon tree works well in many landscape and homestead situations.

1. Wildlife habitat planting
2. Homestead orchards
3. Native food forests
4. Shade tree for rural properties
5. Rootstock for grafted persimmon trees

Many landowners combine persimmons with other wildlife friendly trees such as Black Gum Trees or evergreen species like Eastern Red Cedar to create a natural habitat planting.

Why Buy Trees From Weaver Family Farms Nursery

At Weaver Family Farms Nursery, we are proud to be a small American family nursery dedicated to growing hardy trees that perform well in real landscapes.

If you ever have questions about selecting trees, planting, or shipping, feel free to reach out through our Contact Page.

American Persimmon Tree Frequently Asked Questions

Are these persimmon trees grafted?

No. These are native seed-grown American Persimmon trees that can be used as rootstock for grafting if desired.

Do persimmon trees produce fruit?

Yes. Mature trees produce small orange fruits that become sweet when fully ripe in fall.

Are American Persimmon trees native to Missouri?

Yes. American Persimmon trees naturally grow throughout Missouri and much of the eastern United States.

How long does it take for a persimmon tree to produce fruit?

Seed-grown trees can take several years to begin fruiting, but they are extremely hardy and long-lived trees.