Description |
Is a small tree that reaches a height of 35-60'High x 25'Wide. It grows well in upland well drained soils. One of the few trees with a deep taproot which makes it a very drought tolerant species. The fruit is a favorite of wildlife and is also quite astringent when green but upon ripening, (turning burnt orange) becomes sweet and may be eaten off the tree. The fruit is sometimes used in syrups, jellies, ice creams, or pies. It also lends an appearence of small pumpkins on a trees when ripe especially striking against a shaded dark back ground. The dark glossy green foilage of the American Persimmon can be used to make teas. American Persimmon is a member of the ebony family, and the wood is extremely hard and was used to make golf club heads and is still used to make billiard cues and handles for tools. Another choice tree for the water conservation minded individual as this species will not die of drought. The wood also provides an interesting smoke flavor for meats.
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