The persimmon is a bright orange, round fruit native to East Asia, where it has been cultivated for centuries. It has a smooth, glossy skin, and its color can range from light orange to a deep red-orange as it ripens. There are two main types of persimmons commonly found in stores: astringent and non-astringent. The astringent type, such as the Hachiya persimmon, has a high tannin content and tastes quite bitter unless fully ripe and soft. The non-astringent type, like the Fuyu persimmon, is sweet even when firm and can be eaten like an apple. When ripe, persimmons have a rich, honey-like sweetness and a soft, custard-like texture. They are versatile fruits that can be eaten raw, dried, or cooked, making them popular for desserts, salads, and smoothies.