Black Persimmon

diospyros digyna

Also known as: ["Black Persimmon","Indian Persimmon"]

Family: Ebenaceae Genus: Diospyros Category: Fruits

Overview

A tropical tree species native to Southeast Asia, known for its dark purple to black fruit.

Benefits & Perks

["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Ericales
Family: Ebenaceae
Genus: Diospyros
Botanical Name: Diospyros digyna

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Fruits
  • Suitable Location: protected outdoor location or large indoor pot with bright, indirect light
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Edible Gardeners Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter; cactus or succulent mix amended with compost works well.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to avoid leaf burn; protect from direct afternoon sun; adjust light exposure based on indoor/outdoor placement.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, fertile loam with organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use a mix that doesn’t compact easily; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.

Temperature

Prefers warm temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in stable conditions with slight cooling in winter.

Protect from frost; maintain stable temperatures; adjust care for seasonal shifts.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to remove buildup; avoid overfertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Apply rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), and indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also use water propagation for cuttings.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; avoid leaving stubs.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to target the soil directly at the base of the plant.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with coarse materials.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Leaf drop, yellowing, or wilting; slowed growth or bud drop in extreme conditions.

Cold Stress

Leaves may turn brown or drop; growth halts; risk of root damage in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature drops.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or leaf drop; reduced flowering or fruiting in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse between feedings.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Diospyros digyna may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Diospyros digyna can be caused by water stress, either due to overwatering leading to root rot or underwatering causing dehydration, both of which impair nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Diospyros digyna are typically caused by fungal or bacterial infections, which can lead to defoliation and reduced photosynthetic capacity if left untreated.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Diospyros digyna is often a result of excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are highly susceptible to the toxic compounds in unripe Diospyros digyna fruit. Even small amounts can cause significant gastrointestinal and systemic effects.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy depression abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
fruit
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten unripe

Prevent cats from accessing unripe fruit. Immediate veterinary care is required if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Toxic

Dogs are particularly sensitive to the tannins and other toxic compounds in unripe Diospyros digyna fruit. Ingestion can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and potential systemic toxicity.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
fruit
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten unripe

Keep unripe fruit out of reach of dogs. If ingestion occurs, seek veterinary attention immediately.
Humans
Toxic

The unripe fruit of Diospyros digyna contains high levels of tannins and other compounds that can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and systemic effects upon ingestion. The ripening process reduces these compounds, making ripe fruit safe for consumption.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain headache
🌿 Toxic Parts:
fruit
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten unripe

Ensure the fruit is fully ripe before consumption. Unripe fruit should be avoided to prevent poisoning.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the fruit of Diospyros digyna edible?

A: Yes, the fruit is edible and often consumed when ripe.

Q: Does this plant require full sun?

A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Q: Is Diospyros digyna toxic to pets?

A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Quick Reference
Family: Ebenaceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","edible gardeners","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

American persimmon
View
Date plum
View
African Boxwood
View
Persimmon
View