Brown Tips on Persimmon Leaves

Persimmon trees are troubled by few pests.

Persimmon trees include both native and Oriental varieties. The trees experience few problems with pests, but several types of fungi cause leaf spot diseases. These common diseases typically appear in July and August.

Fungal Leaf Spot

Fungi that cause leaf spot diseases in persimmon trees include Cercospora, which creates numerous brown spots on leaves; Phyllosticta, which causes lesions without margins; Physalospora, which forms brown concentric rings; and Mycosphaerella. Coniothyrium causes brown spots with a dark border; severe infections can cause leaves to drop.

Considerations

Another cause of fungal leaf spot, Gloeosporium particularly affects the margins of leaves. The fungus causes spots in many colors, including shades of brown or spots with brown margins. The disease can cause distorted leaves in persimmon trees.

Persimmon Wilt

Persimmon wilt, or Cephalosporium wilt, can cause yellowing, then browning of leaves. Wilt is also caused by a fungal infection.

Other Causes

Persimmon trees need well-drained soil. An excess of water can lead to root rot, which also causes leaves to yellow, brown and drop away.

References

• Clemson Cooperative Extension: Persimmon
• University of Illinois Extension: Fungal Leaf Spot Diseases of Shade and Ornamental Trees in the Midwest
• California Rare Fruit Growers, Inc.: Persimmon
• University of Hawaii Manoa Extension: Persimmon -- General Crop Information
• U.S. Forest Service: Diospyros Virginiana L. -- Common Persimmon
• Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services: Cephalosporium Wilt of Persimmon

Resources

• North Carolina Cooperative Extension: Growing Oriental Persimmons in North Carolina
• University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service: American Persimmon
• University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Servcie: Persimmons
• University of Minnesota Extension: Yard and Garden Brief -- Armillaria Root Rot