A dioecious shrub, up to 2 m (6 ft.) in height, with leathery, ovate leaves, it is the only species in the genus. Pale-yellow male flowers appear in axillary clusters; the greenish female flowers are usually solitary and followed by ovoid seed capsules.
History and traditions
The oil from the seeds of this herb was used by Native Americans as a cosmetic and for softening garments made from animal skins. In the 1970s jojoba was discovered to be a valuable replacement for sperm whale oil and large commercial plantations have since been established in Arizona and across wide areas of semi-arid grassland in the United States.
Habitat/distribution
It is native to southwestern North America and Mexico, and is widely grown as a crop in the United States and the Middle East.
Growth
Tolerant of drought, it thrives in dry, gravelly soil. A half-hardy plant, it is propagated by seed sown in spring, or by heel cuttings taken in autumn.
Parts used
Oil expressed straight from the ripe seeds.
Uses
Medicinal
Jojoba oil has exceptionally soothing and softening properties and is used in pharmaceutical ointments for dry skins, psoriasis and eczema.
Cosmetic
It is also an important ingredient of moisturizers, body lotions and sunscreens.
General
The oil is used as an engine lubricant. The shrubs are planted to prevent further encroachment of total desert in arid areas.
