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Texas Persimmon

Diospyros texana

Last reviewed: June 2026

Texas Persimmon is a drought-tolerant native tree found throughout Texas that produces small white flowers from March through May. This hardy species attracts butterflies and other nectar-seeking insects to gardens and natural landscapes.

Texas Persimmon (Diospyros texana)
Photo: (c) Douglas Goldman, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA), uploaded by Douglas Goldman

Light

full sun

Water

low

Size

96"–240" H × 48"–60" W

Bloom

Mar, Apr, May

Native to

TX

Pollinators

butterflies, nectar insects

Texas Persimmon is a small native tree with distinctive smooth, gray bark that exfoliates to reveal white patches underneath. It produces small white flowers in spring followed by black fruits that are prized by wildlife, and its semi-evergreen foliage provides year-round structure.

Growing Texas Persimmon

Grow Texas Persimmon in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 96 to 240 inches tall and spread 48 to 60 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.

In an HOA neighborhood

Texas Persimmon is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.

Works well in: front yard, mid zone.

  • Trees often require HOA/ARC approval even when allowed.
  • Verify setbacks from sidewalks, driveways, utilities, and structures.
  • Confirm mature height/canopy limits and sightline rules for corners.

Wildlife value

The spring flowers attract butterflies and other nectar-loving insects. The dark fruits are an important food source for birds and small mammals.

Common questions

When does Texas Persimmon bloom?
Texas Persimmon typically blooms from March through May, producing small white flowers that attract butterflies and other pollinators.
What growing conditions does Texas Persimmon prefer?
Texas Persimmon thrives in full sun to partial sun conditions and is highly drought tolerant, requiring minimal water once established. It naturally grows throughout Texas in rocky, limestone soils.
What wildlife does Texas Persimmon support?
Texas Persimmon flowers attract butterflies and various nectar-feeding insects during its spring blooming period. The tree also produces edible fruits that provide food for wildlife and humans.
Is Texas Persimmon HOA-friendly?
Texas Persimmon is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.

Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.

Does Texas Persimmon fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.