This tree probably is best known for its sweet, orange fruit in the fall. The Persimmon grows in light, well-drained soils. This tree ranges from southern New England throughout the southeastern United States, westward to Iowa, Oklahoma and Texas. Ohio is at the northern limit of its range, and the Persimmon occurs in the southern and southeastern counties. The wood of this tree is close-grained, strong and hard.
Woodworkers use it to make golf club heads, billiard cues, and shuttles that are used in weaving.
Also, workers use it for veneer and flooring. People eat the fresh fruit, and they make Persimmon bread, puddings and cakes. Native American Indians stored dried Persimmon fruit like prunes. Many animals, including turkey, quail, opossums, raccoons, skunks and deer, feed on the fruit.