Diospyros oleifera - Green Persimmon, Oil Persimmon

This is an absolute rarity. Diospyros oleifera is generally used as a rootstock for the Diospyros kaki in China, however it is well worth growing this particular persimmon on its own.

Information currently available on its edibility is very scarce so we thought we would take the plunge and give it a try ourselves!! It's absolutely delicious, it actually tastes like apricot jam! Diospyros oleifera can be grown in an unheated large greenhouse or conservatory( it is less hardy than the Sharon Fruit or American Persimmon). To maintain a height of 2-3m it will need to be pruned and yet it will still produce a good crop of fruit. The young green skin of the fruit, gradually becomes a yellowish colour, dotted with black spots and this indicates that the soft sweet flesh inside is ripe to eat. Great for making jams!

This delightful species thrives in a warm sheltered position but not fussy about soil pH. Diospyros oleifera can be grown with fruits at a height of around 2-3m and is hardy to -8c.

 We have excellent quality 20-30cm tall, one year old plants available for sale.