Jojoba seeds (Simmondsia chinensis)

Common name: Jojoba Scientific name: Simmondsia chinensis Also called: Hohoba - Gray box - Wild hazelnut - Deer nut Description: • Jojoba is a perennial evergreen desert plant, exceeding 3 meters in height and having a circular diameter of over two meters due to the many main branches. Its leaves resemble olive leaves, are opposite, and oval-shaped, with a thick edge covered in thin waxy hairs that help conserve water. The leaf tips on the branches reduce exposure to sunlight. It has roots ten times the size of the tree, anchoring deeply and spreading sideways into the ground. It withstands the harshest climatic conditions in terms of high temperatures and severe cold, tolerates high soil salinity, and does not require much water. It has a high resistance to pests and diseases and is one of the best plants cultivated in deserts to develop vegetation cover. Uses and benefits: • Oil and fuel production, known as green gold due to its economic importance, as it contains pure oil making up about 60% of its weight. The oil is similar to whale oil and is used as a substitute in some industries. It is also suitable for developing desert vegetation. Original habitat: • Sonora deserts in North America, and it is also cultivated in Saudi Arabian and Gulf deserts. Fruit and seeds: • Its fruits grow laterally on the new branches, either singly or in pairs, in clusters of up to 10 fruits. Inside, there is a single elongated seed with a circular diameter covered by a thick shell, allowing it to retain its germination ability for several years. Flower: • Its small yellow flowers have no scent or petals, are not attractive to insects, and bloom from the beginning of spring until early summer. Suitable climatic and soil conditions for cultivation: • Jojoba tolerates high temperatures and severe cold. However, for a plentiful harvest, the best conditions are around 36°C during the day and 18°C at night. Jojoba is not suitable for cultivation in tropical areas or regions with heavy rainfall and floods. The best soil for its growth is well-drained sandy soil, but it tolerates high soil salinity and does not need much water. Planting method: • Jojoba reproduces easily through seeds, which germinate within two weeks if planted in suitable soil at a depth of no more than 2 cm. Keep the surface soil moist during germination, but avoid overwatering, as it causes seed rot. After germination, gradually reduce watering.