Diospyros lotus

Diospyros lotus rootstock – date-plum persimmon is used as a rootstock for kaki and persimmon trees, including Diospyros kaki, Diospyros virginiana and Diospyros kaki × virginiana hybrids.

This is a resistant species with good winter hardiness. As with persimmons in general, spring frosts can damage developing buds, but the plant can regrow from lower dormant or axillary buds.

Late grafting is preferable, so the graft can avoid late spring frosts.

Diospyros lotus also produces small fruits of around 1.5 cm in diameter. They contain many seeds and are astringent before full maturity, but can be used like dates once dried.

The tree has an elegant habit and large leaves, so it can also be used as an ornamental tree in the garden.

This rootstock prefers rich, deep soils. Warmth and available soil moisture help it grow well, and it tends to prefer slightly acidic soils.

For vigorous growth, keep the young plant well weeded during establishment.

We supply young Diospyros lotus seedling rootstocks.