Matt's 9b field note
“Fruited in its first year. Dense, sweet flesh with a devoted following.”
Background
Developed by the USDA in the 1950s and named for Chico, California (also known as accession GI 7-62), part of the Chico Plant Introduction Station's jujube selection work. Beyond that, background detail is thin: no verified parentage or breeding record was found in this research.
Distinguishing traits
Round fruit, flattened on the bottom like little pumpkins, with dense sweet flesh; has a devoted following among jujube growers. Early to mid-season ripening. Partially self-fertile, but cross-pollination improves yield. Matt's tree fruited in its first year.
Desert care — zone 9b
- Chill hours
- 50-450 (per Planting Justice); one Australian source cites 200-400 hours below 7°C (45°F)
- Cold hardiness
- Frost hardy; USDA zones 5-9
- Heat tolerance
- Grown successfully in hot southern and southwestern climates
- Water
- Regular water during establishment; drought tolerant once established; avoid waterlogged soil
- Soil
- Well-drained soil, slightly acidic to neutral (pH 4.5-8.0); tolerates many soil types, prefers sandy soils with good drainage
- Sun exposure
- Full sun
Where to buy
- Planting Justice