Common Persimmon (American Persimmon, Possumwood, Sugar Plum)
Diospyros virginiana · Ebenaceae (Ebony family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous leaf
Shape
Elliptical to ovate with an acute to acuminate tip
Margin
Entire (smooth) and slightly wavy
Arrangement
Alternate arrangement along the twig
Venation
Pinnate venation with prominent, looping lateral veins arching toward the margin
Description
The American Persimmon is a medium-sized deciduous tree known for its deeply furrowed dark bark, dark green summer foliage, and sweet, orange, plum-like fruits that sweeten dramatically after the first hard frost. In autumn, the leaves turn shades of yellow, orange, and sometimes purple before dropping.
Habitat
Found in dry to moist woods, old fields, along fence rows, and river floodplains, preferring well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade
Native Range
Native to the eastern and south-central United States, ranging from Connecticut west to Kansas and south to Florida and Texas