John Hershey (1898–1967) was an agricultural pioneer and nurseryman who established an experimental nut tree nursery and food forest in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, starting in 1921. Most of the trees he planted have since been cut down. A few still remain, now scattered through what has become a suburban neighborhood.
The American Persimmon (Diospyros virginiana) is native to the central and eastern United States, where it was long cultivated for its fruit by Native Americans. The fruits, which become soft and wrinkly when ripe, are a dense source of sugar. They are also high in fiber, antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and minerals. Remarkably delicious and nutritious, and ripe at a time when most other fruits are gone (September to December or even January, depending on the tree and the location)—the American persimmon is a valuable food crop and a joy to have around. Best of all, it is resilient enough to grow wild throughout a large native range.
The seed for these seedlings came from John Hershey’s former orchard in Downingtown, PA. The parent trees produce unusually large and sweet fruits.
Most American persimmons are dioecious, meaning that both male and female individuals are required to obtain fruit. Some trees have been found to produce both male and female flowers, or to switch between male and female flowering in different years, and there are some parthenocarpic individuals that will produce fruit without pollination.
In order to increase the chances of obtaining fruit, it is recommended to plant at least 5 seedlings.
Sun: Partial Shade
Moisture: Moist, Average
Zones: 4-9
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