About Diospyros vaccinioides Lindl.
Diospyros vaccinioides Lindl. is an evergreen species that generally grows as a shrub but can also reach the size of a small tree, with a slow growth rate. Its leaves are small, glossy, round, thick and leathery, with pinnate venation. As an evergreen, its leaves remain on the plant for around two or more years, can fall at any time of year, and stay green and functional through more than one growing season. This species produces small, white, bell-shaped flowers in spring, and develops small purple berry-type persimmon fruit in fall and winter. It is primarily valued as an ornamental plant, and has been classified as endangered. It is endemic to Taiwan, and also native to China, specifically Guangdong province, Hong Kong, and Hainan. It grows in the subtropical biome, which is characterized by high temperatures, low precipitation, and warm soil, conditions this species prefers. From a young age, it grows in full sun with only a small amount of shade across all climates, and requires a high volume of water. It has no tolerance for frost, and a high tolerance for wind.
