As our nursery's tree and shrub expert Don often says, "There's something magical about the moment when persimmons turn from green to shades of orange, yellow, red and purple in the autumn garden." After decades of cultivating these remarkable trees, we've grown to appreciate not just their stunning fruit, but their entire journey through the seasons.
Why Persimmons Deserve a Place in Your Garden
Persimmons (Diospyros kaki) offer so much more than just fruit - they're a testament to the changing seasons. In spring, they greet us with delicate white-green blossoms. Summer brings lush, tropical-looking foliage that transforms into a spectacular display of autumn colours, before revealing their crowning glory: those gleaming orange fruits that persist well into winter.
"What makes persimmons truly special," Don explains, "is their ability to thrive in British gardens despite their exotic origins. They're surprisingly hardy and, with proper care, can be as reliable as many traditional fruit trees."
Choosing Your Perfect Persimmon
Through years of careful selection, we've curated varieties that are perfectly suited to British growing conditions. Don particularly recommends:
- Japanese persimmons (Diospyros kaki) for their larger fruits and excellent adaptation to our climate
Astringent or Non-Astringent? Choosing the Right Type
Persimmons fall into two groups, and knowing which one you are growing makes all the difference at harvest time.
Non-astringent varieties can be eaten while the fruit is still firm. Slice them like an apple and enjoy the crisp, sweet flesh straight from the tree, or leave them to soften if you prefer. We grow 'O'Gosho', with large, square-shouldered fruit and a sugary-sweet flavour, and 'Muscat'. Give them the warmest, most sheltered spot you have, as they need a good summer to ripen fully.
Astringent varieties are full of tannins while firm, and a bite of unripe fruit leaves your mouth dry and puckered. Wait until the fruit is completely soft, almost jelly-like, and the tannins disappear, leaving rich, honeyed flesh to scoop out with a spoon. The fruit often hangs on the bare branches long after the leaves have fallen, which makes these some of the most decorative trees in the winter garden. Pick before hard frosts and finish ripening indoors at room temperature; a paper bag with a ripe apple or banana speeds things up. Our astringent range includes 'Triumph', the variety sold in shops as Sharon fruit, and 'Tipo', along with the hybrids 'Nikita's Gift' and 'Rosseyanka', which are among the hardiest persimmons for colder gardens. Shop-bought Sharon fruit is treated after picking to remove its astringency, so fruit from your own tree needs to soften before you eat it.
Not sure which to choose? If you want fruit to eat straight from the tree, go non-astringent. If your garden is cooler or more exposed, or you want a tree that looks spectacular in winter, an astringent variety is the more reliable choice.
Expert Growing Tips from Don
After years of observation and care, Don has refined the art of persimmon cultivation. Here are his key insights:
The secret to success starts with placement. "Persimmons thrive in sheltered spots with full sun," Don advises. "Think of them as Mediterranean plants - they love a warm, protected position against a south-facing wall."
For soil preparation, Don recommends creating a generous planting hole and incorporating well-rotted organic matter. "Persimmons appreciate good drainage," he notes, "but they also need consistent moisture during the growing season."
Creating Year-Round Interest
One of the most exciting aspects of persimmons is their ability to create focal points in different garden styles. In traditional orchards, they add an exotic touch among familiar apples and pears. In contemporary designs, their architectural form makes them excellent specimen trees.
"I often suggest combining persimmons with late-flowering perennials," Don shares. "The contrast between their autumn fruits and the fading summer garden creates a fascinating transition season."
Looking Forward
As British gardens evolve to embrace changing climates, persimmons represent both tradition and innovation. These trees, cultivated for over 2000 years, are finding new appreciation in contemporary gardens.
Don's parting advice? "Don't be intimidated by their exotic appearance. Persimmons are surprisingly forgiving trees that reward patience with both beauty and bounty. Start with one tree, give it time, and you'll discover why these remarkable plants have captivated gardeners for millennia."
Whether you're an experienced orchardist or just beginning your garden journey, we're here to help you select the perfect persimmon for your space. Buy our persimmons online or visit our nursery to discuss our carefully chosen varieties and your specific garden conditions with our knowledgeable team.
For personalised advice on incorporating persimmons into your garden, contact our team or visit our nursery to speak with Don and our other plant specialists.