SafePlants

Diospyros: A Deep Dive into Ebony and Persimmon Trees

The genus Diospyros is a diverse group of trees and shrubs encompassing over 700 species. These plants are known for yielding valuable ebony wood, but also include persimmon trees.

Considerations for Pets

• Ebony in the Diospyros genus has been reported as a sensitizer, although severe reactions are uncommon.

Considerations for Children

• Ebony in the Diospyros genus has been reported as a sensitizer, although severe reactions are uncommon.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Diospyros
• Family: Ebenaceae (the ebony family)
• The name Diospyros is derived from Greek, possibly on the pattern of ivory.
• Examples of species within the genus:
  • Diospyros kaki L.f. (Japanese Persimmon, Kaki Persimmon, Asian Persimmon)
  • Diospyros keningauensis Ng
  • Diospyros celebica (Makassar Ebony)
  • Diospyros crassiflora (Gaboon Ebony, African Ebony, Nigerian Ebony, Cameroon Ebony)
  • Diospyros ebenum (Ceylon Ebony, East Indian Ebony)
  • Diospyros incarnata Grke ex De Wild.
  • Diospyros ferrea var. sandwicensis
  • Diospyros mespiliformis
  • Diospyros pilosanthera Blanco
  • Diospyros whyteana
  • Diospyros humilis (R.Br.) F.Muell (Queensland Ebony, Small-leaved ebony)
  • Diospyros abyssinica
  • Diospyros acocksii
  • Diospyros austro-africana
  • Diospyros batocana
  • Diospyros embryopteris
  • Diospyros virginiana (Common Persimmon)
• Synonyms: Some species have alternative scientific names, such as Ebenus sandwicensis and Maba degeneri, which are synonyms for Diospyros ferrea var. sandwicensis.

Distribution and Habitat

• Diospyros species are found in tropical zones across the globe.
• Diospyros ebenum occurs in southern India and Sri Lanka.
• Diospyros celebica (Makassar Ebony) is endemic to the island of Sulawesi in Indonesia.
• Diospyros abyssinica. Recorded from Zimbabwe and Mozambique.

Ecological Role

• Some species are valued for their hard, heavy, dark wood.

Morphological Characteristics

• The genus includes both deciduous and evergreen trees and shrubs.
• Diospyros mespiliformis is a tall, evergreen tree, reaching 15-50 meters in height with a dense crown.
• Ebony wood is dense, with some types being dense enough to sink in water.
• Only the black or brown heartwood of ebony trees is typically used commercially.

Uses

• Ebony wood is favored for its hardness and beauty, making it suitable for high-class furniture, furnishing, and curving.

Quirky Facts

• The very best quality ebony can resemble black plastic.

Further Information

• ARKive provides photos and facts on Black ebony.
• Flora of Zimbabwe contains records of Diospyros abyssinica.
• Save Waterways Now (SOWN) is involved in habitat restoration in Brisbane’s Enoggera catchment.