Ziziphus mauritiana - Flora of Qatar

Paliurus mairei, Rhamnus jujuba, Ziziphus jujuba, Ziziphus mairei, Ziziphus muratiana, Ziziphus orthacantha, Ziziphus rotunda

Common names

Extract from Wikipedia article

Ziziphus mauritiana, also known as Ber, Chinee Apple, Jujube, Indian plum and Masau is a tropical fruit tree species belonging to the family Rhamnaceae.[+]

Z. mauritiana is a spiny, evergreen shrub or small tree up to 15 m high, with trunk 40 cm or more in diameter; spreading crown; stipular spines and many drooping branches. The fruit is of variable shape and size. It can be oval, obovate, oblong or round, and that can be 1-2.5 in (2.5-6.25 cm) long, depending on the variety. The flesh is white and crisp. When slightly underipe, this fruit is a bit juicy and has a pleasant aroma. The fruit's skin is smooth, glossy, thin but tight.

The species is believed to have originated in Indo-Malaysian region of South-East Asia. It is now widely naturalised throughout the Old World tropics from Southern Africa through the Middle East to the Indian Subcontinent and China, Indomalaya, and into Australasia and the Pacific Islands. It can form dense stands and become invasive in some areas, including Fiji and Australia and has become a serious environmental weed in Northern Australia. It is a fast growing tree with a medium lifespan, that can quickly reach up to 10–40 ft (3 to 12 m) tall.

AI-generated Description

Ziziphus mauritiana, also known as the Indian jujube or ber tree, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to Asia and Africa. In Qatar, it has been naturalized and is commonly found in wild areas, particularly in sandy dunes and wadi beds. Studies have reported its presence in various regions of Qatar, including the northern and southern parts of the country. Research in Qatar has highlighted the plant's adaptability to the local arid environment, with some studies focusing on its potential uses, such as: * Medicinal properties: Ziziphus mauritiana has been traditionally used in Qatari folk medicine for various ailments, including digestive issues and skin problems. * Food source: The fruit of the plant is edible and consumed by locals, either raw or used in traditional recipes. * Ecological significance: As a pioneer species, Ziziphus mauritiana helps stabilize sand dunes and provides habitat for local wildlife. Overall, Ziziphus mauritiana is a hardy and versatile plant that has thrived in Qatar's harsh desert environment, making it an important component of the country's flora.

AI-generated summary of observations

Observations of Ziziphus mauritiana in Qatar reveal the plant's presence in various locations. Fruits of the jujube tree were spotted in the Omani Market in Doha on March 8, 2013, indicating its availability and potential cultivation in the region. In Al Shamal City Park, Ruwais, the fruit was observed on January 16, 2016, suggesting that the tree is able to produce fruit in Qatar's climate. Additionally, a jujube tree was found growing in the same park, providing evidence of the plant's ability to thrive in the local environment. The observations span several years and locations, demonstrating the tree's adaptability and potential for growth in Qatar. The presence of Ziziphus mauritiana in both urban and park settings highlights its versatility and potential uses in Qatari horticulture.

Links

Outside links

How the web page was created

Acknowledgements

QNHG (Qatar Natural History Group) and associated people, for a possibility to participate in their field excursions and to learn about local nature.

Ziziphus mauritiana Lam.

Synonyms