Jujubes are believed to have been cultivated for thousands of years in China and it is believed nearly that long in India.
Over the thousands of years, the fruit found its way into many neighbouring countries and even along the sild road as far as Syria, then Italy and Sicily where this early variety of tree still exists today.
There is a belief that the crown of thorns depicted on the head of Jesus may have been the branches of a Jujube tree. Those faiths that have made reference to the "Tree of Knowledge" with its forbidden fruit may even be referring to the humble Jujube (or fig, pomegranate or peach) as there is little to support apples growing in the region at that time and Jujubes were well established.
Contrast to the long history in the northern hemisphere, it it is believed it has been in Australia for less than 100 years, such a shame when you think of the great climate we have that could have long supported a significant industry around such a sweet and versatile fruit.