Our working day was winding down, everyone was in a sharing mode, and in walked our office manager, with a beautiful, green fruit that we were certain was an apple. We were shockingly mistaken, for this large, juicy fruit was actually one that is, by our knowledge, known to be one of the smaller fruits commonly known to us. We considered this fruit huge because by normal standards, by our standards, it should have been at least three times smaller than it actually was. This was a "jujube", a fruit that is well known and loved by most, if not every Bahamian.

The word "juju" as it is pronounced by most Bahamians is explained by Wikipedia as a word of either West African or French origin. It was used previously by Europeans to describe traditional West African religions. Today it refers specifically to objects, such as amulets, and spells used superstitiously as part of witchcraft in West Africa. Juju has acquired some karmic attributes in more recent times, such as good juju and bad juju, these terms refer to luck. However in this instance, this jujube fruit, seeming to us to be so abnormally large in size is known as the Indian jujube; more sensitive to frost, but considered inferior, and is grown in Florida. Jujube trees are not particularly suitable for container culture, but can be grown in this manner in a large container.

Jujube trees have been growing in warm, dry climates around the world since the trees were domesticated in China, over 4,000 years ago. The jujube berry tree grows commonly throughout the Bahamas. To many it’s a treat and often passers-by, would stop and pick a berry from a neighbor’s tree, popping these tiny fruit in their mouths and spitting the seeds along the roads as they walk. However this particular Indian jujube, that made its presence known in our office, is certainly not one to be popped and spat out. Many would approach this beast of a berry with a knife, or as one would an apple. As delightful as the jujube berry may be, the jujube candy, sold in many theatres throughout the world is even more enjoyable.

At the turn of the century, jujubes were thought to be good for chest pains. Originally these candies contained jujube juice, and were popular in theatres because viewers wanted to avoid coughing and disturbing their neighbors.

We all wanted a taste of this Indian jujube, but Mr. T would have it no other way, than to take it home and enjoy it on his own. How could we blame him?

A jujube tends to be a rare treat, as it is known to be in season but once a year. Whether we choose to eat them sour, with a touch of salt and pepper, or allow them to develop fully and enjoy the sweet, apple like texture, these jujubes are definitely a true delight; much more delightful to eat them than cast spells. The energy in the office since the arrival of this jujube has continued to be very upbeat.

This fruit certainly brought with it, some much desired, good juju.

By Mia Smith

 

Photo Credit: BahamasLocal.com-"The ENORMOUS Juju" between a computer mouse and local Bahamian currency (photo taken in office)