How to Grow Persimmon in New Zealand
Deciduous with spectacular autumn colour and sweet fruit, needing some winter chill so best from the central North Island southward and in cooler inland districts. Plant bare-root in winter while dormant. Non-astringent Fuyu is the easiest for beginners.
When to plant persimmon in New Zealand
Timing is everything in New Zealand, where the warm north and the cooler south are weeks apart. Sow or plant in these months for your region:
| Region | When to sow or plant |
|---|---|
| Northland | June, July, August |
| Auckland | June, July, August |
| Waikato & BoP | June, July, August |
| Wellington | June, July, August |
| Nelson & Marlborough | June, July, August |
| Canterbury | June, July, August |
| Otago & Southland | June, July, August |
| Central Otago | June, July, August |
Best persimmon varieties for NZ
- Fuyu — Non-astringent type eaten firm and crisp, the most popular backyard persimmon. (Waimea Nurseries, garden centres)
- Jiro — Non-astringent variety similar to Fuyu, reliable cropper. (garden centres)
- Hachiya — Astringent type that must be soft-ripe before eating, large heart-shaped fruit. (Waimea Nurseries)
How to grow persimmon
- Space plants about 500cm apart.
- Sow seed around 20cm deep.
- Position: full sun.
- Ready to harvest in roughly 1460 days.
- Seeds germinate in about 21 days.
Companion planting
Grow persimmon near: Fruit trees.
Pests and problems
Watch for: Birds. See our NZ pest and disease guide for organic control.
For a calendar tuned to your exact region, see the New Zealand planting guides or the Persimmon plant page.
FAQ
When is the best time to plant persimmon in New Zealand?
In the warm north (Auckland, Northland) sow in June, July, August. Cooler regions plant a little later. Check the table above for your region.
Where can I buy persimmon seeds or plants in NZ?
Try Waimea Nurseries, garden centres.