Chuchupaka

Chuchupaka persimmon tree is a very early ripening variety, reaching maturity in French regions north of the Loire from late September, depending on the area.

The fruit is sweet, with a flavour leaning towards dates. It has a pleasant aroma and homogeneous flesh, without hard areas. In some years, the skin colour can become very dark.

Chuchupaka is a hybrid between Diospyros kaki and Diospyros virginiana. This gives it aromatic notes reminiscent of Diospyros virginiana, while keeping a correct fruit size, although it remains classed as medium.

This is an astringent persimmon, so the fruit should be eaten fully soft and ripe, once the astringency has disappeared. Astringency can also be removed by drying or by exposure to alcohol vapours.

Chuchupaka is resistant and very hardy against winter frost. As with other persimmons, spring frosts can damage developing buds, but the tree may restart from lower dormant or axillary buds.

This variety is suited to short-summer climates and is also adapted to mountain climates. It is among the easier persimmon varieties to grow successfully north of the Loire.

For best results, plant Chuchupaka in a sunny, relatively sheltered position, protected from strong winds. Water during dry periods in the first years after planting and keep the base of the tree clear of excessive weed competition.

We produce Chuchupaka in several tree forms and on several rootstocks, including Diospyros lotus and Diospyros virginiana, depending on soil conditions and availability.

This variety can also be found under the name Cucupaka.