The fruit from native varieties tends to be smaller, seedier and more astringent until the fruit is ripe. Many native persimmons are simply seedling trees, and as a result, the quality of the fruit may vary widely. However, a number of native persimmons have been selected, named and are available for purchase. Oriental persimmons were introduced into the United States about a hundred years ago. As a general rule, their fruit is superior in quality to native persimmons.
Native persimmons are more cold-hardy than Oriental varieties.
These are the most cold-tolerant of the Oriental varieties. The astringent type should be completely soft before eating. The non-astringent types are firmer and can be eaten prior to softening. Oriental persimmon fruit may reach the size of a peach. The native varieties produce fruit that is closer to the size of a plum.