Introduction to the Origin and Variety Characteristics of Yuncheng Xiangzao Jujube

Xiangzao jujube is produced on the plains at the northern foot of the Zhongtiao Mountains and along both banks of the middle reaches of the Sushui River, and is named after its main producing area, Beixiang Town. The history of cultivating Xiangzao jujube here spans about 3000 years. Xiangzao jujube has excellent quality and was once presented to emperors as tribute, hence it is also called "tribute jujube."

Xiangzao jujube is purple-red in color, with large fruit in a short cylindrical shape; generally about 10 of them weigh about 500 grams. The sugar content of fresh jujube is as high as 30-40%, and after drying, if the jujube is broken open, it can stick back together. Xiangzao jujube stores well, and locally there are Xiangzao jujubes that have been preserved for more than a hundred years. Xiangzao jujube comes in two types, large and small; the small Xiangzao jujube has a smaller fruit shape, ripens about 10 days earlier than the large Xiangzao jujube, has crisp and tender flesh, and a sweet, fragrant taste, making it suitable for fresh eating.

Yuncheng Xiangzao jujube has two types: single-stone and double-stone. Single-stone jujubes are large and hard; double-stone jujubes are small and soft, and the stone and flesh can be eaten together.