Jujube - Ziziphus jujuba (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images, Edible)

Jujube

Also known as: Red date, Common jujuba

Jujube or Ziziphus jujuba is also known as red date and Chinese date. It is a deciduous tree that is often grown for its small fruit. When immature, the fruit resembles a crisp apple. When ripened, the fruit wrinkles and resembles a date.

Scientific classification

Species

Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba)

Roses, elms, figs, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer

Bloom Time

Summer, Fall

Harvest Time

10 m to 20 m

Plant Height

7 m

Spread

Green, Yellow, Gold

Leaf Color

5 mm

Flower Size

Brown, Red, Yellow, Orange, Gold, Copper, Burgundy

Fruit Color

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Green, Brown

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Deciduous

Leaf type

Images of Jujube

Distribution of Jujube

Distribution Map

Jujube has its origins in natural regions spanning across the Middle East, the Indian subcontinent, and East Asia. Cultivation and introduction efforts over time have expanded its presence, with jujube thriving in parts of the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, Central and South America, and Eastern Europe, as well as pockets within Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. Jujube has adapted well outside its native range, enjoying widespread cultivation.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Dry gravelly or stony slopes of hills, mountains

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Symbolism

Wealth, prosperity, fertility

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Quickly Identify Jujube

White to yellowish-green fragrant flowers with five petals, blooming from late spring to early summer.

Brownish-purple drupe fruit transitioning from apple-like to date-like texture, housing 2 seeds.

Shiny, ovate to lanceolate green leaves with rounded tips and yellow fall coloration.

Robust brown stem with straight or curved thorns up to 2.4 inches (6 cm) long.

Dark brown to gray blocky bark with deep furrows and scales, resembling a jigsaw puzzle.

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Care Guide for Jujube

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Jujube thrives in warm, arid conditions and is drought-tolerant, needing watering once every 1-2 weeks with dry soil between. It excels outdoors, particularly in climates that replicate its hot, dry native environment, benefiting from full sun exposure and well-draining soil.

Fertilize: Jujube requires balanced nutrition fertilizers for optimal growth, with biannual applications in spring and post-harvest. Avoid over-fertilization to prevent root burn. Adjust quantities seasonally, using lighter amounts in spring and heavier post-harvest. Dilute fertilizers for young shoots to ensure their safety.

Pruning: Jujube needs careful pruning for optimal growth, best done in late winter during dormancy. Remove dead, diseased, or overcrowded branches to improve air circulation and sunlight access, promoting healthier growth and fruit production. Following horticultural guidelines ensures effective maintenance of jujube.

Propagation: Jujube is best propagated in Spring and Winter using grafting and layering techniques. It has a moderate propagation difficulty level. Monitor for vigorous growth and rooted signs to achieve successful propagation.

Repotting: Repot jujube every 2-3 years in early spring to facilitate growth, using a deep pot for its taproot. Ensure efficient drainage and moderate watering post-repotting. Provide full sun exposure for optimal health, and handle with care due to spiky branches.

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Images of Jujube

Distribution of Jujube

Culture

Quickly Identify Jujube

Care Guide for Jujube

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