Contents
Description
Pseudoziziphus Parryi, commonly known as Parry’s jujube, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It belongs to the Rhamnaceae family and is closely related to the Chinese jujube (Ziziphus jujuba). The plant has a spreading growth habit and can reach a height of up to 20 feet. It produces small, fragrant flowers in the spring, followed by small, red or yellowish-green fruits in late summer or early fall. The fruits are edible and have a sweet taste when fully ripe.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rhamnales |
| Family | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus | Pseudoziziphus |
| Species | Parryi |
Appearance
The leaves of Pseudoziziphus Parryi are small and oval-shaped, with a glossy, dark green color. The bark of the tree is smooth and gray, with small thorns on the branches. The flowers are small and white or pink, with a pleasant fragrance. The fruits are round and about the size of a cherry, with a smooth skin and a single seed inside. They can be either red or yellowish-green, depending on the cultivar.
Care Guide
Pseudoziziphus Parryi prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It is drought-tolerant and can survive in a range of soil types, but prefers slightly acidic soil. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter. Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Hardiness zones for this plant range from 7b to 10a.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pseudoziziphus Parryi is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can be affected by spider mites, scale insects, and powdery mildew. Control spider mites and scale insects with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Prevent powdery mildew by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Pseudoziziphus Parryi is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in arid and semi-arid environments, such as deserts, canyons, and rocky slopes. It is often found growing alongside other desert-adapted plants, such as cacti and agave.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pseudoziziphus Parryi a good plant for landscaping?
A: Yes, Pseudoziziphus Parryi can add an interesting texture and color to a xeriscape or desert garden. It can also be grown in a container and used as a patio plant.
Q: How often should I prune my Pseudoziziphus Parryi?
A: Prune your Pseudoziziphus Parryi in the winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches. You can also shape the plant to your liking at this time.
Q: Can I eat the fruit of Pseudoziziphus Parryi?
A: Yes, the fruit of Pseudoziziphus Parryi is edible and has a sweet taste when fully ripe. However, the fruit is not commonly consumed in the United States.
Q: How tall does Pseudoziziphus Parryi grow?
A: Pseudoziziphus Parryi can grow up to 20 feet tall, but can also be pruned to maintain a smaller size.
Related Plants
- Ziziphus jujuba
- Ziziphus spinachristi
- Rhamnus alaternus
References
- “Pseudoziziphus Parryi” Arizona State University, accessed October 15, 2021, https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapaiplants/SpeciesDetailTrees.php?genus=Pseudoziziphus&species=parryi.
- “Parry’s Jujube” Las Pilitas Nursery, accessed October 15, 2021, https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/511–pseudoziziphus-parryi.
- “Pseudoziziphus Parryi” The Trees of Stanford & Environs, accessed October 15, 2021, https://trees.stanford.edu/ENCYC/PSEpar.htm.
