'Early Fuyu' Asian Persimmon

Early Fuyu is a reliable, early-ripening, non-astringent Asian persimmon, known for its crisp, sweet fruit and adaptability to a range of climates, including marginal climates such as coastal B.C.

Early Fuyu has a sweet, mild, clean flavour, very similar to standard Fuyu. When eaten firm, it is crisp and juicy, with a honeyed sweetness and subtle notes sometimes described as pear, apricot, or mild brown sugar.

Early Fuyu ripens 2 - 4 weeks ahead of standard Fuyu types - early ripening is important in climates with relatively short summers, as persimmons already ripen late in the season. Unlike astringent persimmons, Early Fuyu can be eaten hard or soft (underripe or ripe), making it ideal for fresh snacking, salads, or drying without needing to wait for full softness.

Early Fuyu grows to 12–20 feet tall, with a rounded, spreading habit and attractive form, though it lacks the dramatic fall foliage of some other varieties. Hardy to Zone 7, Early Fuyu performs well in coastal and southern B.C., especially in sunny, sheltered sites.

Early Fuyu'persimmon trees produce only female flowers, which can produce seedless fruit without pollination (parthenocarpically). If pollinated by male Asian or American persimmon flowers, the resulting fruit may have seeds.

Common names: Early Fuyu Persimmon, Matsomoto Wase Fuyu Persimmon, Asian Persimmon, Japanese Persimmon, Oriental Persimmon, Kaki Persimmon

Edible: Fruit
Harvest timing: October-November

Scientific name: Diospyros kaki 'Matsumoto Wase Fuyu' (aka Early Fuyu)

Light requirements: Full sun
Full-grown size: 12-20' tall x 10-15' wide
Hardiness: Zone 7
Pollination: Capable of setting fruit without pollination (parthenocarpically), which means you only need one tree to get fruit. 
Wildlife: Not deer resistant. Wildlife attracted to fruit.
Origin: Species is native to China. Cultivar originated in Japan and is an early-ripening bud sport (natural mutation) of 'Fuyu', reportedly discovered by Mr. Matsumoto.
Noteworthy: One of the best performers in marginal climates, such as coastal B.C.