Common Persimmon

This small to medium-sized tree, also called American Persimmon, grows 30 to 60 feet tall. Its bright orange fruit is fully ripe and edible following a frost, and is popular with birds such as the cedar waxwings pictured here.  Most native trees are either male or female; a male tree must be nearby in order for the female tree to bear fruit. This plant grows best in partial shade, and in moist, rich soils.