Jujube (Massandra)

Massandra is a Nikita Botanic Garden jujube selection known for dependable crops and fruit that finishes well, even under conditions that often lead to cracking. As the fruit fully browns and sweetens, it develops the classic jujube character many growers look for in both fresh eating and drying. Growers often note that fruit quality improves as trees mature, with better finish and more consistent sweetness over time. In discussions among growers, Massandra is frequently grouped with closely related Nikita selections for its dense crunch and strong resistance to cracking. This combination has made it a practical choice for growers who prioritize harvest quality and consistency over novelty.

Overview

• Nikita Botanic Garden jujube selection (17p16g)
• Known for clean fruit finish and crack resistance
• Classic jujube flavor that improves at full maturity
• Flexible use for fresh eating or drying
• Self-fertile; improved yield with another jujube nearby

Growing Details

Latin Name: Ziziphus jujuba ’Massandra’
Primary Use: Fresh eating and drying
Site and Soil: 1/2 day to full day of sun; well-drained soil
Chill Requirement: Low chill; exact requirements not well defined
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-mid to mid-season 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: Growers frequently note Massandra’s ability to finish fruit cleanly with fewer cracking issues, with flavor and overall quality improving as trees mature.
• Regional Insight: Performs well across temperate regions, including areas with variable late-season weather where fruit finish can be a deciding factor.
• Early crops may be modest in size; fruit quality typically improves with tree age.
• Explore more jujube varieties in our collection: Jujube Trees