Jujube botanically known as Ziziphus jujube, also known as Chinese red date, Da Zao, and Chinese date is a popular “drupe” fruit of Chinese origin. It grows in natural wild and cultivated orchards in Korea, Japan, and many Middle Eastern regions. Actually jujube tree has been cultivated since 4,000 years ago. In ancient times, it was categorized as “The Five Fruits” together with peach, plum, prunus mume, and apricot. Because of its crispy texture, edible skin, and a sweet-tart, apple-like flavor, Jujube is grown throughout the world. Dry jujube has similar taste and nutrition profile as that of dates; packed with energy, minerals and essential vitamins.

Growing Climate

Jujube is a small, deciduous, erect tree growing up to 5–10 m high, spinose or unarmed with brown to gray-brown bark and spreading often drooping branches. It is normally found growing in warm, sunny location and can tolerate many types of soils, but prefers sandy, well-drained soils and does less well in heavy, poorly drained soil. They can grow in soils with high salinity or high alkalinity. It does not perform well in heavy, poorly drained soils.