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Description
Diospyros Kaki Jiro, commonly known as the Japanese Persimmon, is a deciduous tree native to China, Japan, and Korea. It is widely cultivated for its sweet and flavorful fruit, which is consumed fresh, dried, or used in desserts and other culinary preparations.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Ebenaceae |
| Genus | Diospyros |
Appearance
The tree can reach a height of up to 10 meters and has a rounded, broad crown. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and ovate in shape, with a length of up to 20 centimeters. In the fall, the leaves turn a vibrant yellow-orange color. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, and the fruit is round and orange-red in color, with a diameter of up to 10 centimeters.
Care Guide
Diospyros Kaki Jiro is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers well-draining soil and regular watering, especially during the growing season. Fertilization should be done in the spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer. The tree requires full sun exposure to produce fruit, and it is hardy to USDA hardiness zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Japanese Persimmon is susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including fruit rot, leaf spot, and spider mites. Proper sanitation and good cultural practices can help prevent these issues. Insecticidal soap and fungicides can be used if necessary.
Habitat
Diospyros Kaki Jiro is native to China, Japan, and Korea, but it is widely cultivated in other parts of the world, including the United States. It grows best in areas with mild winters and hot summers, and it prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: When is the best time to harvest Japanese Persimmons?
A: Japanese Persimmons are usually harvested in late fall, after the fruit has ripened and turned a deep orange-red color.
Q: Can Japanese Persimmons be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Japanese Persimmons can be grown in containers, but they require a larger pot and regular pruning to keep them manageable.
Q: How long does it take for a Japanese Persimmon tree to bear fruit?
A: Japanese Persimmon trees usually start bearing fruit 3-4 years after planting.
Q: Are Japanese Persimmons self-pollinating?
A: No, Japanese Persimmons require cross-pollination to produce fruit. It is recommended to plant two different varieties to ensure good pollination.
Related Plants
- Diospyros virginiana (American Persimmon)
- Diospyros lotus (Date Plum)
- Diospyros ebenum (Ceylon Ebony)
References
- “Diospyros Kaki Jiro.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c124.
- “Japanese Persimmon.” University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/mg041.
- “Diospyros Kaki.” Plants For A Future, www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Diospyros+kaki.
