And since jojoba oil contains no cholesterol or triglycerides and is not broken down by normal metabolic pathways, it may become an important low-calorie oil for human consumption. The oil can be used as an antifoam agent in antibiotics production and as a treatment for skin disorders. Other proposed uses include candles, plasticizers, detergents, fire retardents, transformer oil, and for the leather industry. Jojoba is a woody evergreen shrub or small multi-stemmed tree that typically grows to a height of 10 to 15 ft. Leaves are opposite, oval or lanceolate, gray green, and have a waxy cuticle that reduces moisture loss.
Female flowers are small, pale green and commonly solitary or in clusters at the nodes.
Male flowers are yellow, larger, and occur in clusters. Pollination occurs via wind or insect. The fruit is a green capsule which encloses up to three seeds. Seed production is generally limited until the fourth year of growth. Jojoba is best suited to areas that are frost free and is not grown in the northern midwest.