The Jujube's True Family: The Rhamnaceae
Contrary to popular assumption, especially given nicknames like 'Chinese date,' the jujube's botanical lineage has nothing to do with true dates or the plum family. Jujubes, belonging to the genus Ziziphus, are prominent members of the Rhamnaceae family, more commonly known as the buckthorn family. This diverse family comprises around 50 genera and over 900 species of trees and shrubs found in temperate and tropical regions worldwide. The Rhamnaceae family includes other notable plants, such as the common buckthorn and the nitrogen-fixing Ceanothus species.
The jujube species most widely cultivated is Ziziphus jujuba, native to China, where it has been grown for over 4,000 years. Its long history has led to a wide variety of cultivars with different characteristics. Another notable species, the Indian jujube (Ziziphus mauritiana), thrives in tropical and subtropical climates and is a close relative within the same family. The misconception about the jujube's family often stems from its appearance and texture, which can be similar to other drupes like dates, but their genetic makeup confirms they are distinct.
Why Are Jujubes Mistaken for Other Fruits?
Several factors contribute to the public's confusion about the jujube's relatives:
- Nicknames: The term 'Chinese date' or 'red date' for dried jujubes is a major source of confusion, directly suggesting a false relationship with the palm date (Phoenix dactylifera).
- Dried Appearance: When dried, the skin of a jujube wrinkles and its flavor concentrates, giving it a resemblance to a wrinkled date or a large raisin.
- Stone Fruit Similarity: Like peaches, cherries, and plums, the jujube is a drupe, meaning it has a fleshy outer layer surrounding a single, hard pit or 'stone.' This morphological similarity can lead people to group them incorrectly.
The Diversity of the Buckthorn Family
The Rhamnaceae family is far-reaching and includes many lesser-known plants besides the jujube. For instance, the genus Hovenia, which includes the Japanese raisin tree, is part of this family, as are various ornamental buckthorn species. Many members of the Rhamnaceae family, including the jujube, are rich in bioactive compounds like triterpenoids and flavonoids, which have been studied for their potential health benefits. The family's widespread distribution and unique characteristics, such as flowers with stamens opposite the petals, mark it as a distinct botanical group.
Jujubes vs. Plums: A Comparative Look
To further clarify the jujube's identity, here is a comparison with the plum, a common stone fruit from a different family (the Rosaceae family), highlighting their key differences.
| Feature | Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba) | Plum (Prunus domestica) |
|---|---|---|
| Family | Rhamnaceae (Buckthorn Family) | Rosaceae (Rose Family) |
| Related Fruits | Indian jujube (Z. mauritiana) | Peach, cherry, almond |
| Texture (Fresh) | Crisp and apple-like | Soft and juicy, often firm when underripe |
| Flavor | Mildly sweet, nutty taste | Varies by cultivar, from very sweet to tart |
| Flesh Color | Whitish | Yellow, red, or purple |
| Ripening Color | Green to reddish-brown | Changes from green to purple, red, or yellow |
| Hardiness | Very hardy, drought-tolerant | Less drought-tolerant than jujubes, prefers temperate climates |
Uses of the Versatile Jujube
Jujubes are highly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways, from fresh to dried, and in cooked applications. While fresh jujubes offer a crisp, apple-like texture and taste, dried jujubes are sweeter and chewier, similar to a date. These 'Chinese dates' are often used in traditional medicine and cuisines across Asia, baked into cakes, or brewed into teas and soups. In Italy, they are used to make 'brodo di giuggiole,' a traditional liqueur, showcasing their global culinary reach. The Indian jujube is also popular in tropical regions for its crisp, white flesh. The fruit's adaptability and nutritional value have made it a staple in many cultures for centuries, prized for its high vitamin C content and other beneficial compounds.
Conclusion
In summary, the fruit that jujubes are related to is found within the Rhamnaceae, or buckthorn, family. While its resemblance to dates and other stone fruits can be confusing, the jujube's unique botanical classification sets it apart. The next time you encounter this versatile fruit, remember its heritage as an ancient member of the buckthorn family, unrelated to the fruits it so often impersonates. Its hardiness, adaptability, and nutritional benefits solidify its status as a remarkable and distinct fruit in the plant kingdom.
