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Can You Grow Persimmon in Illinois?
US · USDA Zone 5b · zones 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a
Asian persimmon cannot handle the cold winters in your zone — try American persimmon (Diospyros virginiana) for zones 4-9.
Plant zones
Illinois last frost
Illinois first frost
Days to harvest
About Persimmon
Asian persimmon produces stunning orange fruit in fall when little else is bearing. Sweet, non-astringent varieties like Fuyu can be eaten crisp like an apple. One of the lowest-maintenance fruit trees available.
Buy a grafted Fuyu (non-astringent) or Hachiya (astringent — must ripen fully). No spray needed. Drought-tolerant once established. Fruit in years 3-5. Harvest after first frost for astringent varieties, or when firm-ripe for Fuyu.
Gardening in Illinois
Illinois has a humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Chicago is Zone 5b-6a; southern Illinois is warmer at Zone 6-7. Classic Midwest growing region.
Frequently asked questions
Can you grow Persimmon in Illinois?
Asian persimmon cannot handle the cold winters in your zone — try American persimmon (Diospyros virginiana) for zones 4-9.
What zone is Illinois?
Illinois spans USDA Zone 5b (4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a).
When do you plant Persimmons in Illinois?
See the planting guide for Persimmon — timing depends on your exact frost date.