Because of marketing difficulties, this industry ceased, but it is a very popular dooryard fruit in Florida. Although persimmons are widely adapted to many soil types and climate conditions, trees grow best in Central and Northern Florida and can produce high yields of quality fruit. The months of highest production in central Florida are October and November. California and Japan produce persimmons for commercial use. They are available primarily from October to February.
Persimmons are a good source of vitamin A, contain a very small trace of fat and no cholesterol.
The non-astringent varieties should be quite firm. The skin should be smooth, glossy and brightly colored. Fruit will ripen at room temperature. Since astringent persimmons must be soft, or near that state at harvest, they do not store well, up to 3 days refrigerated. However, non-astringent types can be stored up to 30 days at room temperature.