Family: Ebenaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Diospyros vaccinioides, commonly known as small persimmon, is native to southern China. This compact, evergreen shrub or small tree typically grows 3–10 feet tall, making it well suited for hedges, borders, and container plantings. It has small, glossy dark green leaves and produces petite, round orange fruits that resemble miniature persimmons. The fruits are edible when fully ripe and have a sweet flavor, though they are often enjoyed fresh in home gardens rather than grown commercially. Because of its dense growth habit and tolerance for pruning, small persimmon is also valued as an ornamental plant and is sometimes used in bonsai.

Risks & Threats
Small persimmon is considered low risk in Hawaiʻi. It is not known to be invasive and has not shown aggressive spreading behavior in tropical landscapes. While birds may disperse its seeds, there is no evidence that it forms dense thickets or displaces native vegetation. As with any introduced plant, responsible cultivation and proper garden management are recommended, but overall, Diospyros vaccinioides is regarded as a safe choice for home gardens and ornamental use.

High Risk Traits:

• Suited to tropical/subtropical climates
  
• Congeneric weed (other Diospyros species are problematic)
  
• Produces viable seed
  
• Seeds dispersed by birds
  
• Seeds survive gut passage

Low Risk Traits:

• Not naturalized elsewhere
  
• Not reported as a weed
  
• Lacks spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• No evidence of toxicity to animals or humans
  
• Not prolific seeder (<1000/m²)
  
• Self-incompatible (dioecious)
  
• No adaptations for wind or water dispersal
  
• Unlikely to be a produce contaminant
  
• Critically endangered in native range