Shared by Andrew Philpot, Assistant park manager, as Guest Blogger.

Fairy Stone State Park is a park that has a rich history in folk-lore, legends, and cultural heritage. One particular bit of local lore pertains to a wonderful local tree, the Common persimmon (Diospyros virginiana).

Ripe persimmons picked in November

It is said that if you take a ripe persimmon off the tree, eat it, and slice one of the seeds long ways that you will be able to predict the winter’s weather.

According to the lore the shape of the kernel within the seed tells an interesting tale:

•    If the kernel is shaped like a spoon – lots of heavy, wet snow will fall
•    If it is shaped like a fork – the winter will be mild, with light snowfall
•    If it is shaped like a knife – icy, cutting winds can be expected

So, as a park ranger I felt that I had to put this legend to the test.

I went out to the persimmon tree in front of the park office and picked a ripe persimmon. It is said that you have to wait until after the first frost to be able to enjoy them, but it tasted great even though we haven’t seen our first frost yet.

I then cut one of the seeds open with my pocket knife, lo and behold there was a distinct spoon shape within the kernel.

What kind of weather does this persimmon predict?

I guess we will have to wait and see if the legend holds true this year.

But I for one am going to make sure that the plow and shovels are ready for the snow.

Fairy Stone State Park is located in Patrick County, just minutes from the Blue Ridge Parkway. Winter is a great time to visit, whether it snows, or not. Cabins are equipped with wood burning fireplaces, as well as central heat. We also have a lodge that sleeps up to 16, more about Fairy Stone State Park's 25 cabins and lodge here.

Cabins are a great place to snuggle up in the cold winter

if the persimmon prediction comes true at Fairy Stone State Park

Cabin 5 in a December snow in 2009 at Fairy Stone State Park

For reservations online click here, or call our Customer Service Center at 800-933-PARK (7275).

Click here for a Google map to help plan your next hiking, biking or overnight visit to Fairy Stone State Park.