[5] The fruit is an acorn-shaped ovoid, three-angled capsule 1–2 centimeters (0.39–0.79 in) long, partly enclosed at the base by the sepals.

The mature seed is a hard oval that is dark brown and contains an oil (liquid wax) content of approximately 54%.

Jojoba leaves have an aerodynamic shape, creating a spiral effect, which brings wind-borne pollen from the male flower to the female flower.[?]

The botanist Johann Link originally named the species Buxus chinensis, after misreading a collection label "Calif", referring to California, as "China".

Jojoba was collected again in 1836 by Thomas Nuttall who described it as a new genus and species in 1844, naming it Simmondsia californica, but priority rules require that the original specific epithet be used.

Jojoba oil production has increased significantly and is expected to continue growing due to rising demand, particularly in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries.

[9] Jojoba foliage provides year-round food for many animals, including deer, javelina, bighorn sheep, and livestock.

Additionally, it has a longer shelf life than other natural oils, making it a durable ingredient in skincare products.

Jojoba leaves also contain antioxidant flavonoids, which have been studied for their potential in treating asthma, inflammation, and cancer.

During the early 18th century Jesuit missionaries on the Baja California Peninsula observed indigenous peoples heating jojoba seeds to soften them.

The O'odham people of the Sonoran Desert treated burns with an antioxidant salve made from a paste of the jojoba seed.

The Seri, who utilize nearly every edible plant in their domain, do not regard the seeds as real food and in the past ate it only in emergencies.

[2] Archibald Menzies was the botanist with the Vancouver Expedition that arrived in Santa Barbara, California in November 1793.

[16] Plantations of jojoba have been established in a number of desert and semi-desert areas, predominantly in Argentina, Australia, Israel, Mexico, Peru and the United States.

It is currently the Sonoran Desert's second most economically valuable native plant (overshadowed only by Washingtonia filifera—California fan palms, used as ornamental trees).

These soils, primarily derived from acid igneous materials, are typically found on slopes exceeding 3 up to over 30 percent.

[20] Factors such as drought, freezing conditions, and biotic pressures can significantly impact seedling survival.

In Arizona's Sonoran Desert, it is commonly found between 600 and 1300 m. This elevation range provides an ideal environment for jojoba, characterized by well-drained, dry slopes or along wadis, where water runoff can support plant growth.

[17] Selective breeding is developing plants that produce more beans with higher wax content, as well as other characteristics that will facilitate harvesting.

[2] By selecting appropriate elevations and ensuring proper water management, farmers can establish successful jojoba plantations that yield high-quality oil.

As interest in sustainable agriculture grows, jojoba represents a promising crop for arid regions, providing economic benefits while thriving in challenging environments.

[29] Agrawal et al. (2007) [5] identified the sex-specific Random amplification of polymorphic DNA Genetic marker OPG-5, a base segment of 1400 bp, which only occurs in male plants.