Persimmon Sex Determination: Seeds vs. Flowers

Seed Sexing: Impossible

There is no way to distinguish male from female persimmon seeds. Like kiwi, the sex is only revealed at flowering (3-7 years from seed).

Flower Identification

• Male flowers: Small, clustered in groups of 3-5, no visible ovary.
• Female flowers: Larger, solitary, with a prominent central ovary.

Visual Reference

Clear photos and description: Backyard Nature Persimmon Flowers

Practical Implications

• Plant multiple seedlings (5-10) to increase odds of both sexes.
• American persimmon (Diospyros virginiana) is usually dioecious.
• Some cultivars are self-fertile or parthenocarpic (seedless without pollination).
• For guaranteed fruit, buy grafted named varieties (e.g., 'Fuyu', 'Hachiya') which are self-fruitful or have known pollinizers.

Growing from seed is a long-term experiment. For reliable harvests, invest in nursery-grown, sexed or self-fertile cultivars.