Jujube Seedling (Ziziphus jujuba)

Unnamed seedling jujubes grown from seed, commonly used as rootstock. Most commonly Ziziphus spinosa (sour jujube) used for rootstock, also Ziziphus jujuba seedlings. Vigorous rootstock with good germination and stress tolerance. Produces thorny spiny shrub/tree. Suckers profusely from roots, can create impenetrable thorny thickets if not controlled.

Small fruit, quite variable quality. Usually sour or inferior taste compared to improved varieties. Can produce viable seed (unlike many named varieties which have sterile seed). Some seedlings may produce acceptable fruit suitable for fresh eating or drying, but quality unpredictable. Often outproduces grafted varieties on same tree when left as comparison branch.

Seedlings have been growing in Texas and southwestern US since approximately 1875 when seeds were scattered by railway workers. Trees scattered throughout Texas, Arizona, New Mexico from historical railway seed distribution. Widely available, inexpensive, easy to maintain. Commonly sold as rootstock for grafting improved varieties.