Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba) in the United States: challenges and opportunities

Abstract

Jujube cultivars were first introduced into the United States in 1908. Budwoods of over 30 cultivars were imported from 1908 to 1918. Unfortunately, most of them were lost after the USDA Chico Introduction Station was closed in the 1950s. Researchers working with jujubes predicted its high potential, especially in the Southwestern United States. So far, jujube-related research is very limited. Jujubes are distributed widely in the U.S., from Pennsylvania and Washington D.C. to Florida; and from Florida and Georgia, westward through Arkansas, Texas, and New Mexico out to California. They adapt well to the climate and soil conditions in the Southwest and fruit well. Commercial production is limited, but interest is growing. Nurseries have not been able to meet the market demands in recent years, and only a few cultivars are commercially available. Both growers and consumers demand more cultivar selections to extend the season and to satisfy different uses from consumers. With jujubes' late-spring start-up, they are also a good alternative crop in areas that suffer late-spring frosts. Because more consumers are concerned about the health benefits of fruit, jujubes are gaining attention again. Also, the Asian population is growing fast, especially near big cities, and their demand for jujubes is high. Researchers need to introduce and evaluate jujube cultivars and recommend more cultivars with varied maturity dates and uses to growers and consumers. More American-style jujube products are another key factor in promoting jujubes. With its nutritious fruit, wide adaption, early fruiting, and drought tolerance, jujube production could become an industry in the U.S. within 15-20 years.