Persimmon (Diospyros kaki) TOKYO GOSHO

Persimmon (Diospyros kaki) 'Tokyo Gosho'

Rare large-fruited Japanese variety (PCNA) with exquisite sweet flavor.

'Tokyo Gosho' (also known as Gosho Kaki or Hana Gosho) is a prestigious Japanese persimmon variety, considered a delicacy in its country of origin and often given as a luxury gift. It belongs to the PCNA group (Pollination Constant Non-Astringent), which means its fruits are sweet and free of astringency even when hard. They can be eaten crunchy directly from the tree, similar to apples or pears. Although it is more challenging to grow, it rewards the grower with first-class fruit quality.

Key Highlights:

• PCNA type: Fruits are sweet, non-astringent, and crunchy immediately after harvest.
• Excellent taste: Considered one of the best-tasting varieties available.
• Large fruits: Attractive shape and orange color.
• Self-fertile: Produces fruit even without pollination.
• Historically prized variety ("Flower of the Imperial Palace").

Origin and Registration

• Origin: Japan (Nara region). Historical name "Hana Gosho".

Variety Characteristics

Tree

• Growth: Medium vigor. The tree is vital but requires care.
• Flowering: Self-fertile variety.
• Cultivation difficulty: Compared to common varieties (e.g., 'Jiro'), it is more demanding to grow. It is prone to premature fruit drop, thus requiring optimal conditions and good agricultural practice.

Fruit

• Size: Large fruits with an attractive shape.
• Color: Deep orange.
• Flesh: Orange, firm, crunchy. Contains no tannins.
• Taste: Very sweet, delicate, texture resembles a pear.
• Usage: Primarily for fresh consumption as a delicacy. In Japan, leaves are used for wrapping sushi (Kakinoha sushi).

Resistance and Requirements

• Cultivation: Requires a warm, sheltered location and regular irrigation to prevent fruit drop.
• Frost: Suitable for warmer regions, hardy (winter protection recommended in the first few years).

Cultivation Recommendations

• Location: Sunny, protected from wind.
• Care: Ensure balanced nutrition and water supply to help the tree retain its fruit load.

Harvest and Storage

• Harvest time: Mid-late to late variety (ripens in autumn).
• Consumption: Immediately after picking.