Persimmons

There are two major types of persimmons; the pumpkin shaped Fuyu which can be eaten right away, and the acorn shaped Hachiya which can’t. If you bite into an unripe Hachiya persimmon it is as if you just drank extra strength tea. This astringent flavor is due to the high levels of tannins in the fruit.

Persimmons Persimmons are an excellent source of fiber, Vitamin A, Vitamin C and manganese. It also provides Vitamin B6 & potassium.

Persimmons The oriental persimmon is native to China, where it has been cultivated for thousands of years. In ancient references, persimmons were often referred to as “food for the gods.” They spread to Korea and Japan many years ago where additional varieties were developed. The persimmon is Japan’s national fruit.

Persimmons The art of hoshigaki, hand-drying persimmons, is an integral part of traditional Japanese New Year’s celebrations.

Persimmons China is the largest producer of persimmons, followed by Brazil, Japan, & Korea. The United States grows relatively few persimmons. Virtually all the US crop comes from California.

Persimmons Persimmon trees are cultivated for their fruit, as well as for timber used in golf clubs, textile weaving, & furniture; for producing nectar for honeybees; & for beautification.

Persimmons References on Persimmons      Children’s Literature on Persimmons  Tales from the Persimmon Patch By Sherri Baker  The Tiger and the Dries Persimmon By J Park