Common Persimmon (American Persimmon, Possumwood)
Diospyros virginiana · Ebenaceae (Ebony family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Elliptical to ovate
Margin
Entire (smooth) with a wavy edge
Arrangement
Alternate
Venation
Pinnate venation with a prominent central midrib and looping lateral veins that curve upward toward the margin.
Key Features
Alternate, simple leaves with entire margins and prominent curved veins; dark, thick, blocky bark resembling alligator hide on mature trees; and hard, round, plum-like fruits.
Description
The leaves are broad, alternate, and turn a modest yellow or purple-tinged color before dropping in the fall.
Habitat
Typically found in mixed deciduous forests, old fields, along fence rows, and dry-to-moist soils. Tolerates a wide range of soil types from sandy to clay.
Native Range
Native to the eastern and southern United States, ranging from Connecticut west to Kansas and Texas, and south to Florida.