Lotus Persimmon Rootstock
Diospyros lotus seedlings are the most used and adaptable rootstock for persimmons in the US. Also known as Date Plum, they can make tasty small, but astringent fruit. If left ungrafted seedlings will grow out as either male or female plants. Both sexes are needed for pollination and fruit. Can be used as a rootstock for both Asian as well as American persimmon varieties. Fast and easy to grow, they are moderately challenging to get a high percentage of grafts to take. Best to do late when the weather has warmed, or callous grafts on a callousing bench. They are very easy to topwork when 2+" caliper, making growing the rootstocks in place and then grafting over to the desired variety a superior way to go.
Description
Diospyros lotus seedlings are the most used and adaptable rootstock for persimmons in the US. Also known as Date Plum, they can make tasty small, but astringent fruit. If left ungrafted seedlings will grow out as either male or female plants. Both sexes are needed for pollination and fruit. Can be used as a rootstock for both Asian as well as American persimmon varieties. Fast and easy to grow, they are moderately challenging to get a high percentage of grafts to take. Best to do late when the weather has warmed, or callous grafts on a callousing bench. They are very easy to topwork when 2+" caliper, making growing the rootstocks in place and then grafting over to the desired variety a superior way to go.