Tag: Buckthorn family

The name "coffeeberry" does not come from a botanical relationship but a visual one, referring to the seed's striking resemblance to a coffee bean. This term is applied to at least two different plants, causing common confusion among gardeners and coffee lovers alike. Understanding the context of which "coffeeberry" is being discussed is key to unraveling the mystery behind the name.

Jujubes, often mistaken for dates due to their sweet flavor and dried appearance, belong to an entirely different botanical lineage. This ancient fruit, also known as the Chinese date, is part of the buckthorn or Rhamnaceae family, making it unrelated to common tree fruits like plums, dates, or cherries.