Simmondsia chinensis
The common name comes from the O’odham tribe who used Jojoba paste to treat burns, and the oil to preserve hides. Jojoba oil is similar to sperm whale oil and grew in popularity after the ban on whale hunting.
Flowers: J F M A M J J A S O N D
Status: Native
Origin: Across all upper Sonoran Desert habitats on hillsides and slopes above desert valley floors in Arizona, California, Baja California, and Sonora
Family: Simmondsiaceae
Size: 6′ tall
Sun: Full
Watering: Low
Growth Rate: Slow
Soil: Can tolerate nutrient poor soils, prefers good drainage
Temperature:
Pruning: Every few years to accentuate natural shape
Disease and Pests:
Uses: Edible fruit (although best when roasted), oil, leaves for tea
Notes: Can be allergenic. Jojoba is dioecious, meaning there are separate male and female plants.
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