Insights into Persimmon: a multifaceted overview of the D. kaki Thunb. of today as a tool to tailor the kaki of tomorrow

Starting with a glance at the attributes which may have been at the base of an interactive co-evolution between persimmon and human beings, this lecture presents D. kaki Thunb. holistically, considering some select tangible and potential aspects of its value. A survey of published papers, identified using a set of key words linked with traditional and innovative value chains on accredited online search engines, is presented in comparison with the results obtained on apple, as reference. More than technical and scientific answers, the lecture poses questions related to the role and position that persimmon may exert and occupy in, but not limited to: i) future societies with regard to changing perceptions of what is "fruit"; ii) environmental issues of a multifunctional tree with potential variegated uses; and iii) a globalized market of "2.0 consumers and dealers. The main question is: Are we ready to interpret the persimmon of today and imagine and give shape to the kaki of tomorrow?