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Description
Diospyros rhombifolia, commonly known as the diamond-leaved persimmon, is a small to medium-sized tree belonging to the Ebenaceae family. It is native to South America and can be found in countries such as Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay. The tree can grow up to 30 feet tall and has a dense, spreading crown with dark green, glossy leaves that are diamond-shaped. The flowers are small, inconspicuous, and yellowish-green in color. The fruit is a small, round, and shiny black berry that is edible and has a sweet taste.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ebenales |
| Family | Ebenaceae |
| Genus | Diospyros |
Appearance
The diamond-leaved persimmon has a compact, rounded shape and can grow up to 30 feet tall with a spread of up to 25 feet. The leaves are thick, leathery, and glossy, and have a diamond shape with a pointed tip. The flowers are small, yellowish-green, and inconspicuous, and are followed by small, round, shiny black berries that are edible and have a sweet taste.
Care Guide
The diamond-leaved persimmon is a hardy tree that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: The tree prefers moist soil but can tolerate occasional dry spells. Water regularly during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter before planting.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The diamond-leaved persimmon is hardy in USDA zones 9b to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The diamond-leaved persimmon is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to the following:
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
- Scale insects: These insects can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control infestations.
- Mealybugs: These insects can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control infestations.
Habitat
The diamond-leaved persimmon is native to South America and can be found in countries such as Brazil, Argentina, and Paraguay. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and grasslands.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the fruit of the diamond-leaved persimmon edible?
A: Yes, the small, shiny black berries of the diamond-leaved persimmon are edible and have a sweet taste.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the diamond-leaved persimmon?
A: The diamond-leaved persimmon is hardy in USDA zones 9b to 11.
Q: What is the scientific name of the diamond-leaved persimmon?
A: The scientific name of the diamond-leaved persimmon is Diospyros rhombifolia.
Q: What is the appearance of the flowers of the diamond-leaved persimmon?
A: The flowers of the diamond-leaved persimmon are small, yellowish-green, and inconspicuous.
Related Plants
- Diospyros virginiana
- Diospyros kaki
- Diospyros ebenum
- Diospyros celebica
References
- “Diospyros Rhombifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 21 Sept. 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a496>.
- “Diospyros Rhombifolia.” Plantz Africa. Accessed 21 Sept. 2021. <https://pza.sanbi.org/diospyros-rhombifolia>.
- “Diospyros Rhombifolia.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Accessed 21 Sept. 2021. <http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=386266>.
