Description
Fire Crystal is a cold-hardy hybrid persimmon developed to bridge the gap between American and Asian persimmons. By combining the resilience and cold tolerance of American persimmon with improved fruit traits influenced by Asian persimmon genetics, Fire Crystal offers a more approachable eating experience for growers in cooler regions.
Unlike traditional American persimmons, which must become very soft to lose their astringency, Fire Crystal produces fruit that is low to non-astringent. In many climates, the fruit can be eaten while still firm-ripe, though full sweetness develops as the fruit softens slightly. This makes Fire Crystal an excellent choice for growers who want a persimmon that is easier to enjoy fresh while still remaining cold hardy.
Overview
- Cold-hardy hybrid persimmon with improved eating quality.
- Low to non-astringent fruit compared to American persimmons.
- Can be eaten firm-ripe in many growing conditions.
- Well suited to home orchards in cooler climates.
- Reliable producer with minimal special care.
Growing Details
Latin Name: Diospyros virginiana × Diospyros kaki ‘Fire Crystal’
Site and Soil: 1/2 day to full day of sun; well-drained soil
Rootstock: Grafted onto American persimmon rootstock
Hardiness: USDA Zones 5–9
Bearing Age: 1–3 years
Size at Maturity: Typically 20–30 ft tall and wide; easily maintained at a smaller size with routine pruning
Bloom Time: Late spring
Ripening Time: Mid to late fall (typically October–November)
Pollination Requirements: Self-fertile; yields may increase with another persimmon planted within 20–30 ft
Pests & Diseases: Generally low-pressure; very resilient once established
Additional Notes
- Grower’s Insight: Fire Crystal is a great entry point for growers who want improved persimmon eating quality without sacrificing cold hardiness.
- Regional Insight: Fire Crystal performs well in the Mid-Atlantic, Midwest, and other regions where pure Asian persimmons struggle with winter cold.
- Fruit may be eaten firm-ripe or slightly softened, depending on climate and maturity.
- Avoid heavy nitrogen fertilization late in the season to ensure proper ripening.
- Explore more American persimmons in our collection: American Persimmons
