How to identify male and female plants of Diospyros armata

Diospyros armata (Jindanzi): An Evergreen or Semi-Evergreen Shrub for Bonsai Enthusiasts

Diospyros armata, commonly known as Jindanzi or Thorny Persimmon, is a semi-evergreen or evergreen shrub belonging to the Ebenaceae family. Its stem is robust, upright, and naturally twisted with an iron-like texture, making it highly suitable for creating stunning tree stump bonsais.

Also referred to as "Bottle Orchid" or "Potted Orchid Tree," this plant produces pale yellow flowers in April. The blossoms are bottle-shaped and emit a delicate orchid-like fragrance, hence the name "Bottle Orchid." By May, the flowers give way to fruits that turn orange-red or yellow by October. These small, round fruits resemble bullets, which is why the plant is called "Jindanzi" (Golden Bullet). The fruits remain on the tree until the following spring, while the deep green, glossy leathery leaves provide year-round beauty. With its attractive flowers, fruits, and foliage, Jindanzi is a highly ornamental plant and prized for its economic value in the bonsai market.

Origin and Varietal Differences of Diospyros armata (Jindanzi)
Jindanzi is distributed and cultivated across East, South, and Central China. Currently, the most popular varieties for market and exhibition purposes are from Sichuan and Hubei provinces. However, there are notable differences between the two:

• Sichuan Jindanzi: Features smaller leaves and more fruits. Even small or miniature bonsais can bear fruit after reaching a certain age.

• Hubei Jindanzi: Classified into large-leaf, medium-leaf, and small-leaf varieties. The large-leaf type produces small fruits, the medium-leaf type bears large fruits, and the small-leaf type yields medium-sized fruits. Some smaller Hubei Jindanzi specimens may rarely bloom or fruit even after years of cultivation. One standout feature of Hubei Jindanzi is that it remains evergreen in winter. From New Year’s Day to the Spring Festival, the fruits transition from green to red, creating a striking contrast against the green leaves and twisted iron-like branches.

How to Distinguish Between Male and Female Diospyros armata (Jindanzi)
Jindanzi is dioecious, meaning individual plants are either male or female. As a result, some potted Jindanzi plants bear fruit while others do not. It is difficult to determine the gender based solely on tree shape, bark color, leaf shape, leaf color, or vein patterns. The most accurate way to distinguish between male and female plants is by examining the flowers:

• Male Plants: Each leaf bud produces two or more small, lantern-shaped flowers. The flowers have no claws at the base, and upon opening, the male stamens and pollen are visible.

• Female Plants: Each leaf bud produces one or two larger flowers. The flowers have four claw-like structures that form a triangle around the center. When the flower opens, the claws expand similarly to persimmon flowers, and the young fruit can be seen inside.
  

For bonsai lovers and gardeners seeking a unique and valuable addition to their collection, Diospyros armata (Jindanzi) offers exceptional ornamental and economic appeal. Whether you're interested in its fragrant blooms, colorful fruits, or elegant bonsai forms, this plant is a standout choice.