How to Grow Jojoba
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Jojoba
Simmondsia chinensis
shrubJojoba is a drought-tolerant woody shrub native to the Sonoran Desert that produces waxy seeds rich in liquid ester oil. The plant is highly valued for its oil, which is used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial applications. It's an extremely hardy, low-maintenance perennial that can live for 150+ years.
When should you plant Jojoba in your zone?
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Example Jojoba timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Jojoba
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Jojoba
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Jojoba dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 9b-11, requiring hot, arid desert conditions
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Get my Jojoba timeline →Growth Stages
Seed germination
2-4 weeksScarified seeds sprouting and sending up first tiny leaves
Scarify seeds with sandpaper before planting. Soak in warm water 24 hours. Plant in well-draining seed mix. Keep soil barely moist, not wet. Germination takes 2-4 weeks.
Seedling & Establishment
6-12 monthsYoung plant developing root system and juvenile foliage; slow initial growth
Provide bright light and heat (70-85°F ideal). Water deeply but infrequently. Gradually acclimate to outdoor sun if growing indoors. Protect from wind. Do not overwater. No fertilizer needed for first year.
Juvenile Growth
2-4 yearsPlant establishing strong woody structure with increasingly dense foliage; no flowers yet
Allow natural, unpruned growth. Water only during drought stress. No fertilizer needed. Thin overgrown branches if necessary. Plant is still developing deep root system.
Flowering & Fruiting
Seasonal; flowers appear annually after year 3-5Small yellow flowers appearing in spring; female plants producing olive-like fruits containing oil-rich seeds
Both male and female plants needed for fruit production (dioecious). Flowers appear March-May in desert regions. Allow natural fruit development. Do not over-water during fruiting season.
Mature Production
DecadesEstablished shrub at full size (6-10 feet tall/wide) producing abundant seed-bearing fruits annually
Minimal maintenance required. No regular pruning or fertilizing needed. Extremely drought-tolerant. Peak oil production at 7-10 years of age. Can produce for over 100 years.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or sulfur if severe. Drought stress increases susceptibility, so maintain minimal watering.
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Spray with horticultural oil during dormant season; hand-remove if infestation is light
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Reduce watering frequency; improve drainage; remove affected leaves; apply sulfur fungicide if needed
Uses
Non-traditional culinary oil
CulinaryWhile jojoba oil is not a traditional food oil, it is sometimes used as a carrier oil in culinary applications and food-grade jojoba wax is used as a sustainable alternative to beeswax in food wraps. [source]
Skincare and cosmetics
MedicinalJojoba oil is rich in vitamin E and antioxidants, making it highly valued in cosmetics for moisturizing, anti-aging, and treating acne-prone skin. Its composition closely resembles human sebum, allowing rapid absorption without clogging pores. [source]
Industrial lubricant and hydraulic fluid
HouseholdJojoba oil is used as a high-performance lubricant in machinery and equipment, and in hydraulic systems due to its stability at high temperatures and resistance to oxidation. [source]
Sustainable wax alternative
CraftJojoba wax is used to create eco-friendly candles, polishes, and cosmetic waxes as a renewable alternative to petroleum-derived paraffin and animal-derived beeswax. [source]
Desert habitat and wildlife value
WildlifeJojoba provides shelter and food for desert wildlife, and its cultivation supports regional ecosystems while reducing pressure on wild populations in Sonoran and Chihuahuan deserts. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Jojoba fruits mature in late summer/early fall (August-October in Arizona). Harvest when fruits turn brown and drop naturally or handpick when fully ripe. For oil extraction, dry seeds thoroughly (moisture content below 8%) before pressing. Commercial operations use mechanical pressing to extract the liquid wax ester. Home growers can press seeds using an oil press or send to a press facility.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Jojoba oil is technically a liquid wax ester rather than a true oil, making it more stable and longer-lasting than most plant oils; it can remain shelf-stable for years without rancidity.
- 🌱 A single mature jojoba plant can produce 1-3 pounds of seeds annually, yielding approximately 0.5-1.5 pounds of liquid oil per pound of seeds harvested.
- 🌱 Jojoba plants are dioecious (separate male and female plants), and a single male plant can pollinate 20+ female plants, making them highly efficient for commercial cultivation.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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