Are Persimmon Tree Roots Invasive?

Are Persimmon Tree Roots Invasive?

Persimmons (Diospyros spp.) Produce nutritious, healthful fruit and also have a distinctive appearance. The trees often develop an unusual form and have bright-orange fruit which stays on the tree well after the leaves drop. Common persimmon (Diospyros virginiana) is indigenous to the United States. It is a more compact tree and is a good selection for a yard. Japanese persimmon (Diosypros kaki) is generally just grown commercially.

Roots

The roots of the frequent persimmon aren’t a problem, notes University of Florida IFAS Extension, but the tap roots of their Japanese persimmon do present a problem. They’re deep and invasive, which makes them hard to transplant. To fix this issue, Japanese persimmons are grafted onto the rootstock of common persimmons. This implies that whether you purchase a common or Japanese persimmon, the sapling will possess probably have common persimmon rootstock.

Climate

Even though the roots aren’t a problem, the trees won’t grow well if they’re not grown in the proper climate. Common persimmons grow in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4b through 9b. The trees are native from Texas to Florida and north to southern Connecticut. Japanese persimmons aren’t indigenous to the United States and are primarily cultivated in California. They prefer warmer temperatures and develop best in USDA zones 7 to 10.

Size

Both the common and Japanese persimmon can hit 60 feet tall, with a spread of up to 35 feet, but the frequent persimmon normally stays smaller and is classified a small- to medium-sized tree. Common persimmon can be trained as a bonsai. The tree is very hardy and can withstand urban conditions, including poor soil and pollution.

Fruit

Even though the frequent persimmon and grafted Japanese persimmon trees do not have invasive roots, the fruits are occasionally a problem. Persimmons ripen after the first frost and frequently cling to the tree well into fall. If they’re not immediately harvested after they ripen, the persimmons fall in the tree, making a sweet, slimy mess which attracts insects. As a result of this, avoid planting persimmons by sidewalks or other areas where people walk or collect.

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