Diospyros kaki

Diospyros kaki, commonly known as the kaki persimmon or Japanese persimmon, is a species of the genus Diospyros in the family Ebenaceae. It is native to China, but it is widely cultivated for its fruit and is naturalized in many parts of the world.

Description

Diospyros kaki is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 10–12 meters in height. The leaves are alternate, simple, and ovate with a pointed tip. The flowers are small and yellowish, with male flowers in three-flowered cymes, female flowers solitary. The fruit is a large, round, orange-yellow berry that is sweet when fully ripe.

Cultivation and uses

Diospyros kaki is extensively cultivated in East Asia for its edible fruit. The fruit is eaten fresh, dried, or cooked, and is used in various culinary applications such as cakes, puddings, and salads. The wood of the tree is also used in furniture making and other woodworking applications.

Varieties

There are many varieties of Diospyros kaki, including 'Fuyu', 'Hachiya', 'Rojo Brillante', and 'Saijo'. Each variety has its own unique characteristics in terms of size, shape, color, and taste of the fruit.

Health benefits

The fruit of Diospyros kaki is rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and dietary fiber. It also contains various antioxidants that are beneficial for health. Regular consumption of the fruit can help in improving digestion, boosting immunity, and preventing various diseases.

See also

• Diospyros lotus
• Diospyros virginiana
• Persimmon