Description
Grafted Plant
Ziziphus jujuba 'Tiger Tooth'
Common Name: Tiger Tooth Jujube
Botanical Name: Ziziphus jujuba 'Tiger Tooth'
Family: Rhamnaceae
Plant Type: Deciduous fruit tree
Origin: Native to China
Description:
The Tiger Tooth Jujube is a unique and highly productive variety of Ziziphus jujuba, known for its distinctive elongated fruit that resembles a tiger's tooth. This hardy deciduous tree can reach heights of 15 to 30 feet(4.57-9.14 metres) with a similar spread, forming a graceful, slightly weeping canopy.
Leaves:
The leaves of the Tiger Tooth Jujube are shiny, dark green, and oval-shaped with serrated edges. They typically measure 1 to 2 inches in length and turn yellow in the fall before dropping.
Flowers:
Small, inconspicuous, yellowish-green flowers appear in late spring to early summer. They are fragrant and attract pollinators, including bees.
Fruit:
The Tiger Tooth Jujube produces abundant, elongated fruits that are 2 to 3 inches long. When ripe, the fruit turns a reddish-brown color, with a crisp, apple-like texture and a sweet, slightly tangy flavor. The fruit can be eaten fresh, dried, or used in various culinary applications.
Growth Conditions:
- Sunlight: Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Soil: Adaptable to various soil types, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils. It thrives in well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
- Water: Drought-tolerant once established, though regular watering during dry periods will enhance fruit production.
- Care:
Tiger Tooth Jujube requires minimal maintenance. Pruning is primarily to maintain shape and remove any dead or crossing branches. It benefits from occasional fertilization, especially in poor soils. The tree is relatively pest and disease-resistant.
Uses:
This variety is excellent for home orchards and commercial fruit production. The fruit is prized for its versatility, being eaten fresh, dried, or used in desserts, preserves, and traditional medicines. The tree also serves as an ornamental, adding beauty to gardens and landscapes with its attractive foliage and form.
Special Features:
- Drought Tolerant: Requires less water once established, making it suitable for xeriscaping.
- Pollinator Friendly: Its flowers attract bees and other pollinators.
- Versatile Fruit: Suitable for fresh eating, drying, and various culinary uses.
Propagation:
Propagated primarily through grafting to ensure fruit quality and tree characteristics. Seed propagation is less common due to variability in fruit quality.
The Tiger Tooth Jujube is a robust and attractive choice for those looking to add a unique fruit tree to their landscape, combining ornamental appeal with productive, tasty fruit.