Though the plant's origin is probably Syria, it was distributed throughout much of the Mediterranean region at least 3,000 years ago and today is most widely grown in China. This deciduous tree grows 12 to 15 feet tall, although trees are known to reach 30 feet. Over time trees develop a graceful, gnarled shape.
Most varieties have thorns on young branches.
Its leaves are 1 to 2 inches long, leathery, and shiny bright green. Fruits ripen in late summer to early fall. Many people enjoy them fresh, after they turn from green to brown, but before they dry and shrivel. At that stage, their flavor and texture is something like a very sweet apple, but not as juicy. Unlike most fruits, jujube will dry on the tree after ripening.