It originates from Japan, where trees can be found up to 500 years old. It has also been cultivated in Europe since the nineteenth century. The plant is at its most beautiful in winter, when the leaves fall and orange fruits remain on the bare branches like lanterns.
The fruits weigh up to half a kilogram. The skin of the fruit is transparent and underneath it is soft flesh full of vitamin C. The best fruit is one that is soft to the touch. Hard fruits ripen in a few days at room temperature. Persimmons can be used to make juice, jam, syrup and fruit salad.
