Description
Autumn Beauty is a fresh-eating jujube (Ziziphus jujuba) also known as ‘Qiyuexian’ (七月鲜, “July fresh”) and AmeriZao™ Alcalde #1. In evaluation work, it’s documented as an early-ripening cultivar with strong fresh-eating quality.
Harvested at the crisp stage, Autumn Beauty offers a clean snap and sweetness that make jujubes especially enjoyable when eaten fresh. When allowed to fully mature, the fruit can also be dried, giving growers flexibility in how and when they use the harvest.
For home orchards, the appeal is straightforward: Autumn Beauty brings a satisfying fresh-eating experience earlier in the jujube season, which can be especially helpful in regions where very late cultivars may be less reliable.
Overview
- Fresh-eating jujube with crisp texture
- Balanced sweetness at the firm harvest stage
- Early to mid-season ripening within jujubes
- Self-fertile; heavier crops with a second variety nearby
- Adaptable option for a wide range of temperate climates
Growing Details
Latin Name: Ziziphus jujuba ‘Autumn Beauty’
Primary Use: Fresh eating; also suitable for drying
Site and Soil: 1/2 day to full day of sun; well-drained soil
Chill Requirement: Low chill; often reported around 150–400 hours
Hardiness: USDA Zone 5–10
Rootstock: Grafted onto jujube rootstock
Bearing Age: Often fruits immediately; grafted trees may produce in their first season
Size at Maturity: Typically maintained at 10–15 ft tall and wide with pruning
Bloom Time: Late spring to early summer
Ripening Time: Early to mid-season within jujube varieties; timing varies by region
Pollination: Self-fertile; improved yield with a compatible jujube planted within 20–30 feet
Pests & Diseases: Generally low pressure; routine orchard hygiene recommended
Yield: Reliable producer once established
Additional Notes
- Grower’s Insight: Known historically as ‘Qiyuexian’ (“July fresh”), this cultivar’s name reflects its early fresh-eating window in its origin context—useful perspective when planning harvest timing.
- Regional Insight: Performs well across many temperate regions, including areas where earlier ripening jujubes help ensure consistent harvests.
- For fresh use, harvest when fruit is firm and beginning to color; allow fruit to fully brown for drying.
- Explore more jujube varieties in our collection: Jujube Trees
