Chinese Jujube, sidr

Ziziphus jujuba is known by its common names of Chinese Date, Red Date and Chinese Jujube. It is native to central China, the eastern Himalayas and Japan. It originally grew in the hills or mountains at an altitude of 1,700 metres, in dry and sunny locations. The shrub or tree reaches a height of 10 metres and a width of 6 metres. The tree has a normal growth rate and often develops multiple stems. The deciduous foliage is green; the leaves are alternately arranged, entire and ovate in shape. The inconspicuous flowers, which appear in spring, are small, 5 mm in size, and whitish-yellow. Later, the tree produces edible fruits 3 cm across, with an apple taste. With increasing ripeness, the fruits turn brownish. The seed is a small stone, like that of an olive. The Chinese Date is best propagated by sowing and pricking. The tree is thorny and has an extensive, deep root system. It otherwise has low soil and irrigation requirements, and can withstand high salinity. No maintenance is required, other than periodic pruning. This Ziziphus can be found in Arriyadh on some private farms, because of its delicious fruits. It is not as hardy and adapted to desert climates as some native species, but the fruit itself and the crop are larger. This tree can be recommended as a specimen or dominant plant, and in avenues planting. Ziziphus jujuba is a screen and shelter plant, suitable for urban areas, public open spaces, park planting, private gardens and street planting.