The small fruits are most often orange but can be golden yellow to red in colour. Unripe fruits are hard and contain high levels of tannins and produce a very astringent taste.

Persimmons offer an excellent source of fiber and contain lots of vitamin A, plus are a good source of vitamin C. Practically fat-free, persimmons are sodium-free. Fully ripened Persimmons are excellent eaten alone and are absolutely delicious made into sherbets, puddings, jams, purees, breads, ice creams, stewed fruits, cakes and other baked goods.