Characterization based on colorimetry, physiology and sensory attributes among traditional jujube cultivars of Sindh, Pakistan

Abstract

Jujube (Ziziphus spp.) fruit is attaining incredible attention in current global climatic changing scenario as the fruit has significant nutritional value but remained unexplored in past.  Fifteen Jujube cultivars were selected at Jujube Research Station Tandojam, Sindh Pakistan, to exploit their morphological, physiochemical, color and sensory attributes. Measured traits like tee shape diverged as semi erect, erect and spreading whereas leaf shape was also found highly variable. Thorn attachment differed as cadoucous, partial and persistent and fruit shape was set as round, oblong, oval and ovate. Maximum leaf blade length was counted by Soofi sanghar (9.0cm) while lowest was found in Gola soghat (5.1cm). Maximum fruit mass was recorded in cultivar Late gola (31.57 g) whereas least was observed in Khirol mukkhri (5.63 g). Maximum stone weight was estimated in Early gola (10.55 g) whereas minimum was recorded in Khirol desi (6.4 g). Highest glucose level was observed in Soofi local (4.46 g 100 mL⁻¹) while lowest glucose level was recorded in Khirol desi and Khirol Ratam (3.53g 100 mL⁻¹). Best cultivars by appearance were Late gola and Early gola followed by Gola saffina, Gola soghat, Soofi sanghar and Soofi local. Findings of this study are useful for varietal improvement and to run successful breeding programmes. Commercially relevant features evaluated in this study are highly beneficial for jujube varietal identification and germplasm conservation