Diospyros kaki 'Vanilla' (astringent Persimmon)

A handsome deciduous large shrub or small tree that makes a fine specimen in the garden, prized for its remarkable muscat-vanilla fragrance, richly flavoured fruit, and strong suitability for UK growing conditions.

Reaching around 3–4m tall at maturity. Happy in full sun on most well-drained soils, and particularly rewarding grown against a warm south-facing wall. One of the most cold-tolerant persimmon varieties available, performing reliably in sheltered positions across most of England and Wales.

Key details about Diospyros kaki 'Vanilla':

- Medium-sized fruit, spherical with a slightly flattened top
- Skin is orange, deepening to red when fully or over-ripened
- Flesh is sweet, very juicy and mildly astringent, with a distinctive muscat-vanilla fragrance
- Can be eaten straight from the tree or left to over-ripen on the branch for a sweeter, softer flavour
- An old Italian variety with a long cultivation history, well suited to the UK climate
- Hardy to approximately -15°C — one of the more cold-tolerant persimmon varieties for UK gardens
- Harvest season typically from late October through to December
- Self-fertile and does not require a pollinator — ideal for smaller UK gardens
- Produces medium yields; thrives in a sheltered, sunny position
- Prefers well-drained, fertile soil; tolerates most UK soil types with good drainage

The 'Vanilla' persimmon is a highly valued variety for UK growers — combining ornamental beauty with exceptional fruit quality, its unique muscat-vanilla fragrance, cold hardiness, and self-fertility make it a rewarding and distinctive choice for British gardens.