Plant Profile: Jujube

Jujube:

            General info: Originating in China, the jujube (Zizyphus jujube, also called Chinese date) is a round to oblong fruit the size of a plum. It has thin, edible, brownish-red skin and sweet, white flesh. The immature fruit ripens from a green color, to yellow with mahogany colored spots, then to completely brown-red. When the skin is brownish-green, the fruit tastes like a sugary sweet apple. Many people like to eat jujubes when they are in the spotted stage because the texture is crisp. Dehydrated fruit taste similar to dates. Jujubes are high in vitamin C. The plant grows into a graceful, ornamental tree 20-40’ tall with naturally drooping branches.

            Landscape uses: Specimen plant or hedge.

            Ornamental qualities: Glossy green leaves in summer; white clusters of blossoms

            Planting: Can be grown in many types of soil, from clay to sandy. Poor soil is tolerated as long as it’s well-drained. Of course, the tree will grow faster in good soil. Plant in full sun.

            Pruning: Pruning is usually unnecessary, except for cutting off thorny root suckers.

            Fertilizing/Watering: Drought tolerant once established. Supplemental watering may be needed during dry conditions for best growth. Self-fertile, but produces more fruit when cross-pollinated. Minimal fertilizer is needed. (Fertilize during the spring.)

Varieties:

           

            Sugar Cane: Very sweet fruit, ripens in late summer to fall.