With an ability to manifest male and female biological sex features, the Persimmon tree has fascinated botanists, arborists and horticultural specialists. Historically in the context of magic (and reflecting the common knowledge of its gender manifesting abilities) it has been firmly associated with gender transition spells, with luck and good health. This work reminds us that, as artist Anohni mentioned in a recent interview with Radio New Zealand: “All of diversity is an opportunity for a more paradisiacal relationship to the world around us. Diversity is the nature of paradise. Monoculture is the nature of prison.”

The Persimmon is a regal tree with a canopy shroud that drapes to the ground, if allowed. Its leaves are like boats, and in Japanese the special word “shibui” describes its taste, the taste of nut skins or an unripe persimmon.” Here, the transitioning female to male (FTM) body holds branches of leaves and fruit.