Diospyros texana aka Texas Persimmon

Diospyros texana belongs to the ebony family, Ebenaceae. Its names include Texas persimmon, Mexican persimmon, and black persimmon. It grows wild from Texas into northeastern Mexico. Its native range includes desert and dry shrubland. In Texas, it grows on the Edwards Plateau and Rio Grande Plains. It also occurs in the southeastern Trans-Pecos region.

This large shrub or small tree often has several trunks. These spread outward to form a vase-shaped crown. In gardens, it reaches about 10 feet (3 m) tall and wide. Larger trees can reach 35–40 feet (10.7–12 m). The smooth bark peels in patches of gray and brown. This patchwork gives the trunks much of their garden appeal. Young twigs are slender, gray, and hairy through much of their first year. The small, blunt buds also bear hairs.

The leaves may fall or stay through part of winter. Trees can keep their leaves in the southern range. Leaves grow in an alternate pattern along the stems. Each simple leaf has an oblong or reverse egg shape. Leaves measure about 0.8–2 inches (2–5 cm) long. Their blunt tips and rolled edges help mark the species. The upper surface is dark green and somewhat glossy. The paler underside can have fine hairs. Short, thick, hairy stalks join the leaves to the twigs.

Male and female flowers grow on separate plants. Small white bells open in early to mid-spring. The female flowers have a sweet scent but draw little notice. They grow alone or, less often, in pairs. The fleshy, round fruit reaches about one inch (2.5 cm) across. A dry, leathery calyx remains at its base. Green fruit tastes astringent before it ripens. By late summer, ripe fruit turns almost black. Sweet, edible pulp surrounds three to eight hard seeds. Many birds and mammals eat the fruit.

Grow this tree in sun or light shade. It does best where soil drains well and withstands drought. Oregon State lists hardiness to USDA Zone 8b. Its modest garden size suits spaces needing a small tree. The peeling bark adds interest beyond the fruit season. Fruit also brings wildlife, but its dark juice can stain surfaces. People have used the fruit to make black dye. The wood has uses in tool making and engraving.