Description
Black Sea (also known as Russian 2) is an early-ripening jujube selected for reliable fresh-eating performance. Originating from collections associated with the Black Sea region, it has earned a reputation for finishing fruit dependably in a wide range of climates.
Harvested at the crisp stage, Black Sea produces firm, juicy fruit with clean sweetness that works well for fresh eating. When allowed to fully mature and brown, the fruit can also be dried, giving growers flexibility depending on season and preference.
In home orchards, Black Sea is often chosen for its consistency. It tends to ripen earlier than many jujubes and maintains usable fruit quality even in seasons where later cultivars can be unpredictable.
Overview
- Early-ripening jujube with dependable finish
- Crisp texture suited to fresh eating
- Balanced sweetness without heaviness
- Self-fertile; improved yields with a second variety
- Adaptable option for temperate and variable climates
Growing Details
Latin Name: Ziziphus jujuba ‘Black Sea’
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
Hardiness: Hardy to USDA Zone 5
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 within jujube varieties; timing varies by region
Pollination: Self-fertile; improved yield with another 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: Black Sea is often planted specifically for reliability—bringing usable, fresh-eating fruit earlier in the season when later jujubes may still be sizing.
- Regional Insight: Performs well in many temperate regions, including areas with cooler or variable summers where early-ripening jujubes help ensure a successful harvest.
- For fresh eating, harvest fruit firm as color begins to develop; allow fruit to fully brown for drying and storage.
- Explore more jujube varieties in our collection: Jujube Trees
