Texas Persimmon (Diospyros texana) · Species Notes

Restoration Role

Wildlife tree / structural understory. Texas Persimmon provides fruit, cover, sculptural form, and exceptional drought tolerance.

Site Suitability

PrimaryShelterbelt, Upland Savanna, Filter Band, River high terrace

SecondaryDrainage edges

AvoidWet drainage core

SoilsSeC, RuB, SuB

HydrologyDry to moderate, well-drained

Propagation & Care

Seed collectionCollect ripe black fruit in summer to early fall.

StratificationClean pulp completely. Cold stratification 60–90 days recommended.

PropagationDiospyros texana is dioecious — only female plants fruit, and they need a male nearby. Propagate from known female plants where fruit is the objective, and include males for pollination. Sow 1/4–1/2 inch deep. The manual lists Texas persimmon among its hybrid seed-and-cutting species; cuttings are also possible for cloning proven individuals, though seed is the more reliable route.

Container progressionSeed → Bootstrap Cell → D40 → Field planting.

Nursery wateringModerate. Avoid soggy media.

LightBright light to full sun.

OutplantingBest age 6–18 months. Plant November–February.

Establishment Watering

Year 1: 5–10 gallons every 2 weeks during drought.
Year 2: drought only.

Field notesBecause a fruiting tree is already available on the property, this should be a priority seed-collection species.