Some of the sweetest native American fruit: American persimmon produce small orange fruits in late fall. Before full ripeness these fruits have an astringent taste that is not palatable, but when fully ripe they have a delicious, sweet caramel flavor. Persimmon trees are dioecious (two houses), so both male and female trees are required for pollination. They are favorites of wildlife, supporting mammals, birds, and more than 45 native butterfly and moth species, including the luna moth. Trees typically reach 20' tall at maturity but can exceed 50' under optimal conditions. Persimmons are marginal in zones 4-5. In cold climates, plant on southern exposure, preferably in a protected area such as near a rock wall where heat can be retained. Persimmons don't like being transplanted and may die back to the root after being planted, but will regrow quickly. They are adaptable to many different soil and growing conditions.