Persimmon (Native)

American Persimmon Pollination Guide

American Persimmon requires a compatible pollination partner to produce fruit.

Needs Pollinator

Without a different compatible variety nearby, American Persimmon will bloom but won't set fruit. You need at least one partner variety planted within 50–100 feet. Choose from the compatible varieties listed below — they bloom at the right time and have compatible genetics.

American Persimmon Quick Facts

Chill Hours

800 hours

Hardiness Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Harvest

October to November (after frost)

Pollination Note

Dioecious — most trees are male or female. Need a male tree nearby for fruit.

Planning Your Orchard

American Persimmon benefits from having a compatible variety nearby. For best results, ensure good pollinator habitat by planting bee-friendly flowers nearby and avoiding pesticide use during bloom.

Keep a record of every tree you plant — variety, rootstock, location.

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About American Persimmon

American persimmon is the cold-hardy native with intense, date-like sweetness when fully ripe. Wild trees dot the Eastern US, but named cultivars like 'Prok' and 'Yates' have superior fruit.

Growing Challenges

Astringent until dead-ripe (after frost); most trees are either male or female, so you may need two.

Frequently Asked Questions

How close does a pollinator need to be to American Persimmon?

For reliable pollination, plant the partner variety within 50–100 feet of American Persimmon. Bees are the primary pollinators and typically work within this range. In practice, a tree in your yard or even a neighbor's nearby tree can work. The closer the trees, the more consistent the fruit set.

Can I grow just one American Persimmon tree?

No — American Persimmon requires a compatible pollination partner to produce fruit. Without a second tree of a different variety nearby, it will bloom but won't set fruit.

Related Tools

Pollination data compiled from university extension services, the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) pollination group charts, RosBREED cherry S-allele research, and nursery compatibility guides. Pollination compatibility can vary by region and microclimate. For best results, consult your local extension office.