Simmondsia chinensis JOJOBA (4 seeds)

Jojoba, also known as Goat Nut or Simmondsia chinensis, is a slow-growing small tree or shrub belonging to the Simmondsiaceae family. Native to the arid regions of Mexico and North America, this robust and hardy shrub reaches about 3 meters in height. Its name "Sheep Nut" stems from the fact that it thrives in dry areas where sheep are commonly raised.

Jojoba seeds, often called almonds or beans, are dark brown, striated, and measure approximately 1 cm in length. Harvesting typically takes place during the autumn. The plant is dioecious, meaning individual plants are either male or female.

Flowers are small, yellow, and measure only about one centimeter in diameter.

Leaves are thick, oval, leathery, and slightly hairy, closely resembling those of an olive or pistachio tree.

- Uses:

This Mexican shrub is primarily cultivated for its seeds, which are used to produce jojoba wax and oil. Jojoba oil is a staple in the cosmetic industry, often used to dilute essential oils or as a sustainable alternative to whale oil (spermaceti).

The oil is highly prized as a massage oil because it penetrates the skin easily without leaving a greasy residue. It is also used as a high-quality engine lubricant and as fuel for lamps.

- Germination and Sowing:

• The ideal time to sow Goat nut is starting in June, when temperatures are sufficiently high.
• Lightly sand the seed coat with sandpaper until the cotyledon is just visible.
• Soak the seeds in lukewarm water for 12 hours to accelerate germination.
• Bury the seeds 1 cm deep in a very well-draining substrate (a mix of sand and seed-starting compost).
• Water generously at the start, then place the culture in a greenhouse at a temperature near 35°C.
• Germination generally begins 2 to 3 weeks after planting.

- Soil Type / Substrate:

Jojoba tree grows best in soil that is low in organic matter but rich in minerals. The substrate must be sandy and very well-drained.

- Exposure / Light:

Goat Nut requires a very sunny location. Proper light exposure is crucial for the successful production of its seeds.

- Temperature / Hardiness:

It thrives in high heat, ideally between 25°C and 35°C. Its hardiness is relatively good, as it can withstand slightly negative temperatures down to -5°C (USDA Zone 8b).

- Watering / Irrigation:

As a semi-desert plant, Jojoba does not need regular watering. Irrigation should be applied at the base of each plant. One watering per week is generally sufficient during the peak of summer.

- Multiplication / Reproduction:

Jojoba can be propagated by seed or by cuttings. For cuttings, take semi-woody stems in September, strip the leaves from the bottom 5 cm, and use the "smothered" (high-humidity) method.

- Pests / Diseases:

In Europe, there are no significant natural predators or fungal diseases affecting this plant.

- Maintenance:

Prune dry stems annually and remove dead leaves that fall as the plant grows.