Jujube Tree (Ziziphus jujuba), also known as Chinese Date, is a hardy, drought-tolerant deciduous tree prized for its crisp, sweet fruits resembling dates when dried. This ancient fruit tree, native to Asia, is valued for both its ornamental appeal and nutritious yield.
The Non-GMO Jujube Tree produces glossy green leaves, small fragrant flowers, and reddish-brown oval fruits rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. It’s easy to grow in poor soils and arid climates, making it an excellent choice for sustainable gardening, home orchards, and edible landscaping.
Features
- Produces sweet, edible fruits similar to dates
- Non-GMO, drought-tolerant, and cold-hardy
- Highly nutritious fruits rich in vitamins and antioxidants
- Tolerates poor soils and dry conditions
- Excellent for home orchards and edible landscapes
- Beautiful ornamental tree with glossy foliage
Specifications
- Scientific Name: Ziziphus jujuba
- Common Name: Jujube / Chinese Date
- Plant Type: Deciduous fruit tree
- Growth Height: 15–40 feet
- Spread: 10–30 feet
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 6–10
- Sunlight: Full sun
- Soil Type: Well-drained loam, sandy, or clay soil; pH 5.5–7.5
- Bloom Season: Late spring
- Fruit Season: Late summer to fall (August–October)
- Flower Color: Greenish-white to yellow
- Fruit Color: Red to brown
- Foliage: Glossy green leaves turning yellow in fall
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
- Planting Season: Spring or fall
- Sowing Depth: ½ inch
- Germination Time: 30–90 days (cold stratification for 30 days recommended)
- Watering Needs: Low to moderate; drought-tolerant once established
- Maintenance: Minimal pruning; remove suckers or dead branches
- Pollination: Largely self-pollinating, though cross-pollination improves yield
- Wildlife Benefits: Attracts pollinators and birds
- Uses: Edible landscaping, home orchards, arid region planting, medicinal gardens
Planting Guide
- Scarify & Stratify: Lightly nick the seed coat, then cold stratify for 30 days at 34–40°F.
- Prepare Soil: Use well-drained sandy or loamy soil in a sunny location.
- Sow Seeds: Plant ½ inch deep and water lightly.
- Light: Provide full sun exposure for best fruiting.
- Watering: Keep soil moist during germination; reduce watering once established.
- Spacing: 15–25 feet apart for orchard planting.
- Care: Prune lightly to shape; avoid over-fertilization.
