Ziziphus mauritiana is an evergreen shrub. The fruit is of variable shape and size, it can be oval, or round, and can be 1-2.5 in (2.5-6.25 cm) long, depending on the variety. The flesh is white and crisp.
The species is believed to have originated in the Indo-Malaysian region of South-East Asia. In Cyprus, it is known as Kounapia.
The use of Ziziphus mauritiana in India can be traced back to as early as 1,000 BC., known also as Ber, Indian jujube, Indian plum, or Desert apple. The fruit is eaten raw, pickled or used in beverages. It is quite nutritious and rich in vitamin C. It is second only to guava and much higher than citrus or apples. It contains 20 to 30% sugar, up to 2.5% protein and 12.8% carbohydrates.
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