Pronounciation: Dye-OSS-pih-ross tex-A-na

Hardiness zones
Sunset 8-16, 18-24
USDA 7-11

Landscape Use: Large accent shrub or small multi-trunk tree, background, patio tree, oasis landscape design themes, edible gardens.

Form & Character: Upright and somewhat open, vase-shaped, clean, tough, interesting.

Growth Habit: Semi-evergreen, woody, broadleaf perennial large shrub or small tree, slow growth rate to 15 to 25 feet in height with slightly less spread, multiple trunks, shedding reddish-gray phellum to reveal a wonderful, smooth trunk appearance having shades of pink, white, and gray.

Foliage/Texture: Leaves medium green, simple, ovate to 1.5-inches long, alternate arrangement, sclerophyllus, some pubescence; medium texture.

Flowers & Fruits: Dioecious, solitary or in cymes of 2 or 3, urn-shaped, white petals; fruits on female trees are rounded, subglobose berries, green when immature, insipid, ripening to dark black in fall, edible when ripe.

Seasonal Color: None.

Temperature: Tolerant of Phoenix cold, but benefits from vegetated protection from intense western afternoon summer sun.

Light: Full sun (except some protection from western afternoon summer sun), NO shade.

Soil: Grows best in well-drained, slightly alkaline soils.

Watering: In Phoenix, established plants will need to be deeply irrigated about once every 1 to 2 weeks during summer to maintain a lustrous canopy of foliage.

Pruning: Very minimal pruning is needed, train when young, elevate crown base to reveal trunk character.

Propagation: Stem cuttings difficult by seed.

Disease and Pests: None

Additional comments: Texas persimmon is rarely seen in Phoenix area landscapes despite it being an excellent small tree that is well adapted to arid climates. Local plant nurseries need to grow this wonderful small tree. Ripen fruits will stain concrete surfaces, be eaten by birds, and can be used to make jams, pies and other delectable treats.