As deciduous trees go, the Morris Burton Persimmon is an easy-to-grow stand-out that provides year-round beauty and food for both humans and animals alike. Although the most prolific fruits are produced with a male and a female tree, plants are partially self-fertile and will produce fruit even on its own. And the fruit of ‘Morris Burton’ is a particular winner, with a sweet, honeyed flavor and few seeds. You also don’t have to wait forever as it typically starts producing in the third year—one of the earliest producing persimmon cultivars. Beyond its fruit, this selection has a commanding upright form and attractive dark green foliage that turns spectacularly red and yellow in the fall. The fruits ripen to an orange-red in the fall, providing even more beauty for the garden.
Conditions: Full sun; moist, sandy soil; drought tolerant once established
Size: 30’-60’ tall, 25’-30’ spread
Zone: 5 - 9
Wildlife Value: Fruit provides food for birds and mammals
Photo: Sonnia Hill