Persimmon
Persimmon is a taxonomic curiosity — it's in the same genus as true ebony (Diospyros), yet what you actually get is almost entirely pale white sapwood. The tiny ribbon of black heartwood is stunning but rarely accessible in practical quantities. As a turning and specialty wood, it punches above its weight: extremely hard, dense, excellent wear resistance. The downside is a very high shrinkage rate — acclimate carefully and expect movement.
- Skipping acclimation — Persimmon has one of the highest shrinkage rates of any domestic hardwood; rushing causes cracking and warping
- Expecting the black heartwood in quantity — the ebony-colored center is usually under an inch wide; don't build a project around it without seeing your stock first
- Ignoring edge-dulling — it blunts tools faster than its domestic hardwood peers; sharpen proactively
Nearly all commercial lumber is pale white to yellowish-brown sapwood. The small dark heartwood (less than 1 inch wide) is dark brown to black — similar to true ebony. Both come from the same genus (Diospyros).
Mixed workability. Generally responds well to hand tools, but can be difficult to plane cleanly and blunts cutting edges faster than expected. Turns and finishes well. Very high shrinkage rate — acclimate thoroughly before working, and expect movement in service.
| Region | Availability |
|---|---|
| North America | Specialty importers only |
| Europe | Specialty importers only |
| South America | Specialty importers only |
| Africa / Middle East | Specialty importers only |
| Southeast Asia | Specialty importers only |
| Australia / NZ | Specialty importers only |