GA-866 Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba)

Bred at USDA Chico Plant Introduction Station Northern California mid-20th century by Dr. William Ackerman. One of four varieties bred at station. Known for very light crop for roughly decade before production kicks off. Partially self-fruitful, benefits from pollination with Li or Lang. Afternoon blooming type.

Large elongated fruit (2 inches). Exceptionally high sugar content (brix 45), one of highest of any variety. Very sweet with apple-like flavor when fresh, date flavor when dried. Dense crisp flesh. Good for both fresh eating and drying, though people generally prefer other varieties for fresh eating. Mid-late season ripening (mid-autumn).

Developed mid-20th century from jujube varieties originally imported from China 1908 by agricultural explorer Frank Meyer. Frank Meyer visited China gathering 67 jujube samples for study, made several return trips introducing new varieties. Station lost funding late 1950s, projects abandoned. California farmers saved some cultivars including GA 866 for continued cultivation.