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Local Farmer Provides Fresh Florida Persimmons

Bill Rettew Jr./Highlands Today

Michael Knox and his daughter, Karen Nietubicz, of Fancy Plants Farms, inspect some of the farm's 600 persimmon trees on three acres.

By Bill Rettew Jr. | Highlands Today

Published: September 16, 2007

LAKE PLACID — Although a local farmer also grows citrus and caladiums, the family-run business is bucking the trend and sells persimmon fruit nationwide.

Michael Knox, owner of Fancy Plants Farms on Henscratch Road, cultivates a grove of 600 persimmon trees on three acres. He said an acre of mature trees will typically yield 5,000 pounds of fruit, which he claims is the most popular in the world.

When available in United States supermarkets, persimmons are costly and run about $2 each.
"If you ever had one, you'll never forget it," said Knox.

A brochure produced by the farm reads, persimmons are "sweet and have the texture of a crispy apple when freshly picked. Some say they taste like an almond-flavored peach."

Highlands County is perfectly situated to grow the hybrid Fuyu because the area rarely suffers late-season frosts.

The harvest begins on about Oct. 15 and lasts only two weeks. The small businessman ships orders nationwide through the Internet.

Daughter Karen Nietubicz works in the office and helps bring in the crop.

"I'm looking forward to the season getting going and getting my hands dirty," said Nietubucz.

Persimmon puree is available from Fancy Plants at $10 a pint, plus shipping. Jars of sliced persimmon are also available.

"It's expensive, but I don't think you can buy the chunks or puree online and ready to cook with," said Knox.

Recipes include: Persimmon cookies, cakes, pies, jelly, fruit salad. Even Martha Stewart lists a recipe available for persimmon chocolate bread pudding.

The fruit may be eaten like an apple, but Knox said persimmons are best after turning from yellow to orange, and then red. The farm harvests the fruit yearly and it ripens when shipped.

Persimmons have the texture of peaches, with a waxy skin and a jelly-like substance when ripe.

For more information and to order online, go to www.FancyPlantsFarms.com or to arrange an appointment to purchase fruit directly at the farm, call 699-1990.

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