Jojoba, Goatnut (Simmondsia chinensis)

Jojoba, Goatnut
Scientific Name: Simmondsia chinensis (Link) C.K. Schneid.
Family: Buxaceae

Jojoba blooming in April Recommended Temperature Zone:
sunset: 10-13, 19-24
USDA: 8b-10

Frost Tolerance: Hardy to 18°F (-8°C)
Heat Tolerance: Excellent
Sun Exposure: Full sun (full sun or light shade in hot deserts)
Origin: USA (Southern California, Arizona) and Mexico (Baja California)
Growth Habits: Evergreen shrub, slow growing to 10 feet tall(3 m), 6 feet wide (1.8 m)
Watering Needs: Little to moderate water, water established plants every month at least in summer, although the plants will survive almost everywhere without additional water.
Propagation: Seeds, cuttings of selected clone

The jojoba is valued for the oil from its seeds. The oil is mainly used for lotions, shampoos, and conditioners because of its antisebum properties.

Simmondsia chinensis, Picture U.S.D.A Forest Service, Courtesy of the Hunt Institute

Cultural Practices:
Plant in spring from containers. Plant does best with occasional deep watering. Fertilize in spring.

Fruiting Habits:
A male and a female bushes need to be present to have fruit, occasionally both types of flowers are present on the same plant. The nut is edible, tasting somewhat like hazelnut, but it is slightly bitter until cured.

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