Persimmon Leaf
Scientific Name: Diospyros kaki
Category: tree
Brief Description
A dark green, glossy, oval to elliptic leaf belonging to a persimmon tree, showing prominent veins and a smooth margin.
Characteristics
Leaves are alternate, simple, broad oval to elliptic, with entire margins, dark green and smooth on the upper surface, and paler with some pubescence underneath. The veins are pinnate and prominent.
Habitat
Cultivated in gardens, orchards, and urban parks in temperate and subtropical regions.
When to Find It
Leaves are vibrant green throughout spring and summer, turning yellow to orange-red in autumn before dropping.
Conservation Status
N/A
Ecological Role
Provides shade and foliage for various insects; the fruit produced by the tree is a vital food source for local birds and mammals.
Easily Confused With
Can be confused with leaves of other fruit-bearing trees like apple or pear, but persimmon leaves tend to be larger, glossier, and have very distinct reticulate veining.
Observation Tips
Look closely at the underside of the petiole and veins for fine hairs. Examine urban parks and botanical collections during the growing season.
Interesting Facts
Persimmon trees belong to the ebony wood family (Ebenaceae) and can produce sweet, orange, tomato-like fruits that ripen late in the autumn.
User Notes
London