Persimmon, known as Japan’s national fruit, has made a notable impact in the Kulgam district of South Kashmir. Recently introduced to the region, this non-native fruit crop has proven to be a more lucrative choice than apples, substantially increasing the income of local farmers.
Thriving in the picturesque district of Kulgam in Kashmir, the bittersweet, orange-hued fruit originally hailing from China has found a new home. Shabbir Ahmad Itoo, a resident of Sonigam in Kulgam, brings a diverse educational background to his farming endeavors and has successfully introduced non-native persimmons to the region, planting them on his farm.
Shabbir said the fruit had been brought by his father from Himachal Pradesh.
Japan’s National Fruit – Persimmon:
“The fruit does not need much care or pesticides like apples. This fruit has very good medicinal value with vitamin C in it. The fruit is also useful for expecting mothers, with qualities that increase blood circulation and provide relief from joint pains,” Shabbir said.
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He added, “It took us about two years, and now it’s bearing fruits. These plants grow significantly, much like apple trees. Furthermore, it has a promising market value. In Kashmir, this fruit is relatively new, but we successfully introduced it in Delhi, where one kg of these fruits sells for more than INR 100.”
With a history spanning more than two millennia, the Diospyros kaki, commonly known as Persimmon, has its origins rooted in China. Presently, China, Japan, and South Korea have emerged as the foremost cultivators and leading producers of this delicious fruit, firmly establishing its importance in East Asian agriculture.
