All persimmon trees are shipped in 4 in x 10 in pots, 12 inches to 24 inches tall and grafted onto Diospyros virginiana rootstock. Price includes UPS shipping within the continental US.

"DEC Ontos the Elder" American Persimmon Tree

The "DEC Ontos the Elder" American Persimmon is a legendary, rare collector's cultivar developed during the late 20th century by the renowned breeder Donald E. Compton (DEC) of Hogtown, Indiana. Functioning as an exceptional male pollinator tree, this variety plays a vital, foundational role in the home orchard. While it focuses its energy on producing pollen rather than fruit, planting an "Ontos the Elder" near your female persimmon trees dramatically maximizes their fruit size, completely enhances overall crop quality, and ensures a bountiful, reliable harvest year after year.

Quick Growing Tips

• Sunlight: Plant in an open location receiving at least 8 hours of full sun daily to ensure strong branch architecture and maximum flower production.

• Pollination Role: This is a designated male tree. Position it within wind-pollination distance of female cultivars (like A-2, A-33, or DEC Goliath) to drastically increase their fruit set.

• Climate & Hardiness: Incredibly robust and built to withstand severe continental winters, it is reliably cold-hardy across USDA Zones 5b through 9.

• Soil & Taproot: Highly adaptable to a variety of soils, including clay loam, sand, and occasionally dry soils, provided there is decent drainage. Ensure it is planted in its permanent home early, as its deep native taproot makes mature trees difficult to transplant.