- Author: Tammy Majcherek
Persimmon Taste Testing at the South Coast Research and Extension Center.....
The South Coast Research and Extension Center opened
up it gates to invited guests, the California Rare Fruit Growers Assoc.
and the UCCE Master Gardeners on Friday, December 2, 2011.
Attendees were treated to the first annual persimmon taste testing to
be held at the South Coast REC in Irvine.
Of the approximately 125 guests, only 54 were brave enough to taste
and evaluate the “fruit of the Gods” grown at the Center. Evaluators
were asked to rate the 14 varieties using a basic one to five scale based
on attractiveness, physical maturity, ripeness, texture, astringency,
sugar, flavor, and overall performance which was rated on a one to nine
ranking.
The persimmon collection at the Center contains various cultivars that
are not widely available and sought after by avid fans of this fruit. The
varieties that were evaluated included True Fuyu (PCNA), OC Fuyu
(PCNA), Imoto (PCNA), Matsumoto Wasa (PCNA), Meakawa Jiro (PCNA),
California Fuyu (PCNA), Gosho (PCNA), Jiro (PCNA), Suruga (PCNA),
Maru (PVNA), Kurokuma (PVNA), Dai Dai Maru (PVNA), Trible (PVNA),
and Nishimura Wase (PVA). Additionally, the softer Hachiya types were
available to taste though weren’t evaluated.
On hand to answer questions were the knowledgeable volunteers who
maintain the Center’s collection along with noted author and
persimmon grower, Jim Bathgate.
Taking advantage of the reusable bags available for purchase, the
attendees filled up with their favorite varieties, especially those that
are not widely available. Proceeds from the sale of the bags will benefit
the Urban Horticulture Extension Program at the South Coast REC
providing the general public with educational opportunities related to
edible and ornamental landscaping.
A good time was had by all experiencing this fall gem. For more
information regarding future public events at the South Coast Research
and Extension Center visit http://ucanr.org/sites/screc/ .