Species

Diospyros kakiJapanese Persimmon

2 other cultivars

fruit vegetable

Fuyu Persimmon

Diospyros kaki 'Fuyu Imoto'

The Story

Plant Bio

Fuyu Imoto is a cultivar of the Japanese persimmon, known for its sweet, non-astringent fruit. It has good cold hardiness and is reliable in producing a heavy crop.

This cultivar produces round to squat-shaped fruits that can be eaten while still firm. It is one of the most popular persimmon varieties due to its flavor and ease of cultivation.

Uses & Benefits:

Diospyros kaki offers glossy foliage and seasonal interest, enhancing landscape aesthetics.

Produces delicious, sweet edible fruits suitable for fresh eating and cooking.

Provides habitat and food for local wildlife, supporting biodiversity.

SpeciesDiospyros kakiJapanese Persimmon

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fruit Vegetable

Height

216 inches

Width

216 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Long-lived tree

Native To

China

Toxicity

Fruit is edible for humans; unripe fruit is astringent

Bloom period

Mid-spring – Late spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Tuck seeds in moist soil in late fall for natural stratification.
Plant seedlings in well-drained soil with full sun exposure.
Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring for healthy growth.
Prune lightly in late winter to shape the tree and remove dead branches.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Pro Tip

Ensure well-drained soil and full sun for optimal fruit production.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water deeply during dry periods 🌱
Prune to maintain shape and remove deadwood ✂️
Feed with organic compost in early spring 🌱
Mulch to conserve moisture and regulate soil temperature 🌱

Don't

Avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot ❌
Don’t fertilize late in the season to prevent new tender growth ❌
Refrain from heavy pruning during flowering ❌
Don’t plant in poorly drained soil ❌

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Harvest
Mulch
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Ornamental tree with glossy foliageSmall edible fruit tree for a backyard orchardSeasonal focal point in garden beds

Companion Plants

Azaleas Camellias Japanese maple MagnoliaFerns

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Fuyu Persimmon questions

What zones can Fuyu Persimmon grow in?

Fuyu Persimmon is hardy in USDA Zones 7–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Fuyu Persimmon deer resistant?

Yes — Fuyu Persimmon is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Fuyu Persimmon bloom?

Fuyu Persimmon typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Fuyu Persimmon need full sun?

Fuyu Persimmon does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Fuyu Persimmon drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Fuyu Persimmon handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.