The jujube tree (Ziziphus jujuba) is an ancient fruit tree often called the Chinese date because its dried fruit has a date-like texture. This species is popular for fruit production in hot, dry climates. A common question is whether its branches have thorns. The answer is not a simple yes or no, as the presence of these sharp structures varies significantly across different varieties.
Yes, But It Depends: Understanding Thorn Presence
Natural, wild, or seedling forms of Ziziphus jujuba are typically thorny, especially on younger, vigorous growth. These sharp structures are technically spines, which are modified stipules found at the base of the leaf stalk. Spines act as a defense mechanism against herbivores. The presence and density of these stipular spines are highly variable, even within the same tree. Older wood often loses its spines, but they are most prominent on younger, rapidly growing stems, particularly those shooting up from the rootstock. This variability is a key factor in distinguishing between wild specimens and specific cultivated varieties.
Morphology and Location of Jujube Spines
The stipular spines typically appear in pairs at the nodes where the leaf attaches to the stem. The branches grow in a characteristic zig-zag pattern, making the paired spines at each joint noticeable. These two spines are usually not identical in appearance.
One spine of the pair is generally straight, rigid, and sharply pointed, sometimes reaching up to an inch or more in length. Its partner is often shorter and noticeably recurved or hooked, resembling a small cat’s claw.
The spines are most commonly found on the primary shoots of young trees and on suckers emerging from the root system. As the stem ages, the spines often become less prominent and may break off or weather away on older wood. The presence of these paired, non-identical spines is a reliable way to identify the species, particularly on new growth.
Cultivar Selection and Thornless Varieties
Horticultural breeding has led to the development of many commercially available cultivars that are partially or completely thornless, which aids harvesting and maintenance. Nursery stock is often grafted onto a spiny rootstock, but the desirable fruit-producing scion variety is chosen for its reduced spine presence. Common cultivars like ‘Lang’ and ‘Li’ are widely propagated and have minimal thorns, making them much easier to manage in an orchard setting.
The ‘Sherwood’ cultivar is specifically noted for being thornless, making it a preferred choice for residential gardens or high-density planting. When purchasing a tree, verify the specific cultivar’s characteristics. Some varieties, such as ‘Sugar Cane,’ are known to be particularly spiny, even though their fruit quality is highly valued.