Contents
Description
Ziziphus Jujuba Var. Inermis, commonly known as the Jujube tree, is a deciduous shrub belonging to the buckthorn family Rhamnaceae. It is native to China but has been widely cultivated in other parts of Asia, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean region for its edible fruit, which is often called Chinese date or red date.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rhamnaceae |
| Genus | Ziziphus |
Appearance
Ziziphus Jujuba Var. Inermis is a small, multi-stemmed tree that can grow up to 10 meters in height. Its leaves are small, glossy, and green, turning yellow in autumn. The tree produces small yellow-green flowers in spring, followed by the edible fruit in summer and autumn. The fruit is round to oblong, about 2-3 centimeters in diameter, and turns from green to red or dark brown when mature. Its flesh is crisp and sweet, with a nutty flavor.
Care Guide
Ziziphus Jujuba Var. Inermis is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions and climates. However, to ensure optimal growth and fruit production, it is important to provide the following care:
- Water: The tree requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season. Avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and midsummer to promote growth and fruit production.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5. Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged soils.
- Sunlight: The tree requires full sun exposure to thrive and produce fruit.
- Hardiness Zones: Ziziphus Jujuba Var. Inermis is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ziziphus Jujuba Var. Inermis is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to the following:
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause leaf curling and stunted growth. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.
- Mites: These tiny pests can cause leaf discoloration and bronzing. Use a miticide to control infestations.
- Fruit Rot: This fungal disease can affect the fruit and cause premature dropping. Apply a fungicide to control the disease.
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease can cause leaf yellowing and dropping. Use a fungicide to control the disease.
Habitat
Ziziphus Jujuba Var. Inermis is native to China but has been widely introduced and cultivated in other parts of the world. It prefers warm, dry climates and can grow in a variety of soil types, from sandy to clayey. It is commonly found in orchards, gardens, and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ziziphus Jujuba Var. Inermis self-pollinating?
A: No, the tree requires cross-pollination from another cultivar to produce fruit.
Q: How long does it take for the tree to bear fruit?
A: It usually takes 3-5 years for the tree to produce fruit.
Q: Can the fruit be eaten fresh?
A: Yes, the fruit can be eaten fresh or dried.
Q: How do you prune the tree?
A: Prune the tree in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or diseased wood and thin out crowded branches to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration.
Related Plants
- Ziziphus jujuba
- Ziziphus mauritiana
- Ziziphus spinosa
References
- “Jujube.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c404.
- “Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba).” University of Florida IFAS Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/HS1253.
- “Ziziphus jujuba.” Plants of the World Online, powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:60423205-2.
