The native varieties produce fruit that is closer to the size of a plum. Most native varieties must be completely ripe and soft before they lose enough astringency to be eaten. Persimmons will continue to ripen after they are picked from the tree. It is a misconception that frost is required before persimmons are edible. In fact, frost will ruin immature fruit on the tree.
Native persimmons are usually dioecious, which means they produce either male or female flowers.
Rarely are native persimmons self-pollinating. Both male and female trees are required to produce a full crop. Native and Oriental persimmons will not cross-pollinate. A mature native persimmon tree may reach a height of 30 to 40 feet. Oriental varieties will be slightly shorter.