Common Persimmon
Diospyros virginiana · Ebenaceae (Ebony family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous leaf
Shape
Elliptical to ovate with an acuminate tip
Margin
Entire (smooth) and slightly wavy
Arrangement
Alternate
Venation
Pinnate venation with prominent, arching secondary veins curving upward toward the margin.
Key Features
Alternate, simple elliptical leaves with entire margins and prominent arching veins; dark, blocky, checkerboard-like bark on mature trees; and round, orange fruits with a persistent woody calyx at the top.
Description
The leaves are broad, alternate, and simple, providing dense shade during the summer before turning a modest yellow or greenish-yellow in the fall.
Habitat
Typically found in dry to moist open woods, old fields, fence rows, and along forest edges. Prefers well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade.
Native Range
Native to the eastern and southeastern United States, extending from Connecticut and New York west to Kansas and Texas, and south to Florida.