Botanical Name:

Ziziphus Jujuba

Common Name:

Chinese date, Red date, شجرة الكنار-شجرة السدر

Genus:

Jujube (Ziziphus)

Will it survive Kuwait’s summer or is it just seasonal?

Will survive Kuwait’s summer

Description:

This evergreen tree is usually grown for its tasty small fruits. When immature, the fruit resembles a crisp apple. While when it ripens the fruit wrinkles and resembles a date. I prefer the taste of this fruit when it starts ripening and changing color from green to yellow, and just before it changes to a dark reddish brown. I advise every household in Kuwait to plant this drought tolerant tree as it creates shade, attracts lots of birds, and produces fruits for birds and humans to enjoy. Historically speaking when most Kuwaiti homes had an inner courtyard, they planted one in the middle of the courtyard seeking its shade during the summer. I personally consider this as a Kuwaiti national treasure and a symbol of historical Kuwait.

Tips for Planting and Watering Needs:

Plant in full sun during the mid to late September when the highest temperature reaches 35 °C. Water once every two days starting from early winter. During the colder days of winter, you could water once every five days or even a week. Make sure not to water when there is rain. During summer water once a day preferably before sun rise or after sun set. Allow water to dry completely between watering.

Characteristics

Plant Type: Tree, Shrub

Lifespan: Perennial

Bloom Time: From April

Plant Height: 10 m to 20 m

Spread: 7 m

Difficulty Rating: Easy

Sunlight: Full sun

Care Guide

Fertilization: Once in September and once in February

Pruning: Trim dead, diseased, overgrown branches in winter.

Planting Time: September to January (the closer to September the better)