Jojoba

Plant Type: shrub
Plant Height: 6-10 feet
Spread: 6-10 feet
Flower Color: yellow
Sun Exposure: Full Sun

Jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis) – A Resilient Desert Shrub with Valuable Oil

Jojoba, scientifically known as Simmondsia chinensis, is a perennial shrub native to the deserts of the Southwestern United States and Northwestern Mexico. This hardy plant is well-adapted to arid environments, thriving in conditions where many other plants struggle. Known for its versatile oil, Jojoba has gained widespread recognition in the skincare and cosmetics industries due to the beneficial properties of its oil, which closely resembles the natural oils found in human skin.

Key Features of Jojoba

1. Valuable Oil Production
   The oil derived from Jojoba seeds is actually a liquid wax, prized for its moisturizing and nourishing qualities. Jojoba oil is unique among plant oils, as its structure closely mimics human sebum, making it ideal for skincare and haircare applications. This eco-friendly oil is non-greasy, highly stable, and known for its hydrating properties, making it a sought-after ingredient in the cosmetics industry.

2. Dioecious Flowering
   Jojoba plants are dioecious, meaning they have separate male and female plants. Male flowers appear in clusters, while female flowers develop singly. Only female plants produce seeds, from which the valuable jojoba oil is extracted. This separation of sexes requires careful planting if fruiting is desired, with both male and female plants needed for pollination.

3. Drought Tolerance and Adaptability
   Jojoba’s thick, waxy, gray-green leaves play a crucial role in its ability to conserve water, making it extremely drought-tolerant and well-suited for harsh desert landscapes. The shrub can withstand high temperatures and low water conditions, making it a reliable choice for xeriscaping and environmentally conscious landscaping in arid regions.

4. Ecological Benefits
   Jojoba serves various ecological purposes beyond oil production. It is often planted as a windbreak or for erosion control in desert landscapes. Additionally, its dense growth and deep roots help stabilize soil and create habitats for wildlife, promoting biodiversity in desert ecosystems.

Ideal Growing Conditions

• Soil: Prefers well-drained sandy or rocky soils.
• Sunlight: Thrives in full sun.
• Watering: Extremely low water requirements; can survive long dry periods once established.
• Maintenance: Low-maintenance; requires minimal pruning and care.

Landscaping and Ecological Applications

In landscaping, Jojoba is valued not only for its unique oil but also for its ability to thrive in desert environments with minimal resources. It’s often used in xeriscaping, desert gardens, and naturalistic plantings. Due to its dense growth, Jojoba can serve as an effective windbreak or privacy screen, and its deep root system makes it a good option for erosion control on slopes and in arid areas.

Summary

Jojoba is a remarkable desert shrub that combines resilience, environmental benefits, and economic value. With its ability to produce a highly sought-after oil and thrive in challenging conditions, Jojoba is a valuable addition to desert landscapes and an essential plant for sustainable and low-water gardens. Whether used for its oil or its ability to enhance arid landscapes, Jojoba is a versatile and ecologically beneficial choice.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Jojoba

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or rocky soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space plants 3-5 feet apart to allow for their spreading growth
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Jojoba requires no staking and grows in a bushy, spreading form

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 4-5 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 1-2 inches of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Jojoba is considered established after 3-4 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 14-21 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 10-14 days. Provide 2-3 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 18-24 inches away from the base of the plant for deep watering
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 1-2 gallons per hour
• Number of Emitters: 1 emitter per plant for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering to every 10-14 days. In winter, reduce to every 4-6 weeks