Bring ancient tradition and modern flavor together with the Asian Date Jujube Tree (Ziziphus spinosa), also known as the Chinese Date Tree or Tsao Fruit Tree. This hardy, deciduous fruit tree produces smooth, oval-shaped red fruits that are sweet, chewy, and nutrient-rich, often compared to dates in taste and texture.
Native to Asia, the Jujube has been cultivated for centuries for both its delicious fruits and medicinal properties. The tree’s graceful branching habit, shiny green leaves, and small yellow flowers make it a beautiful and productive addition to any landscape. Perfect for home gardeners, orchard enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a unique and healthy fruit variety.
Features
- 🍎 Delicious Red Fruits: Sweet, chewy, and rich in antioxidants and Vitamin C.
- 🌳 Hardy & Drought-Tolerant: Thrives in hot, dry climates once established.
- 🌼 Attractive Tree: Shiny foliage and small yellow flowers in spring.
- 🌞 Low Maintenance: Requires little water or fertilizer after establishment.
- 🌿 Multi-Purpose: Excellent for eating fresh, drying, or herbal use.
Specifications
- Common Name: Asian Date Jujube / Chinese Date Tree
- Scientific Name: Ziziphus spinosa
- Plant Type: Deciduous fruit tree
- USDA Zones: 6–10
- Mature Height: 15–30 ft (4.5–9 m)
- Spread: 10–15 ft (3–4.5 m)
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Light Requirement: Full sun
- Soil Type: Well-drained loam or sandy soil
- Soil pH: 6.0–7.8
- Watering: Low once established; moderate during fruiting
- Temperature Range: 50°F–100°F (10°C–38°C)
- Bloom Time: Late spring
- Flower Color: Yellow-green
- Fruit Color: Red-brown when ripe
- Fruit Size: 1–1.5 inches (2.5–4 cm)
- Germination Time: 20–40 days
- GMO Status: 100% Non-GMO
- Uses: Fresh eating, drying, herbal remedies, ornamental landscaping
Planting Guide
- Pre-Soak Seeds: Soak in warm water for 24 hours before planting.
- Sowing: Plant seeds ½ inch deep in well-draining soil mix.
- Light: Provide full sunlight exposure.
- Temperature: Maintain 75–85°F (24–29°C) for optimal germination.
- Watering: Keep soil moist during germination; avoid waterlogging.
- Transplanting: Move seedlings outdoors once 4–6 inches tall and after frost danger passes.
- Spacing: 10–15 ft apart for optimal growth and air circulation.
- Fertilizing: Use balanced organic fertilizer during the growing season.
- Pruning: Shape annually to promote airflow and fruit production.
Care Tips
- Drought-tolerant once mature; water deeply but infrequently.
- Ideal for warm, dry climates — tolerates poor soils.
- Protect young trees from frost in colder regions.
- Fruits mature from late summer to fall; harvest when skin turns red-brown.
