Artocarpus heterophyllus
| Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) | |
|---|---|
| |
| Scientific name | Artocarpus heterophyllus |
| Genus | Artocarpus |
| Family | Moraceae |
| Order | Rosales |
| Growth and size | Large evergreen tree; 10–25 m |
| Climate and site | Deep fertile soil with drainage; warm humid lowland conditions |
| Propagation | Fresh seed 2–8 weeks; grafting and cuttings for selected trees |
| Years to fruit | N/A |
| Fruit and harvest | Large syncarp, often summer or wet-season; yellow arils around seeds |
Description
Jackfruit is a large cauliflorous tree bearing the world’s largest tree-borne fruit. Its yellow arils are sweet when ripe, while young fruit is used as a vegetable.
The accepted genus, family, and order are Artocarpus, Moraceae, and Rosales.
Cultivation
Jackfruit is a lowland Indo-Malayan rainforest tree with a broad, dense crown. It grows rapidly in deep fertile soil with regular moisture, but young trees are vulnerable to waterlogging and cold.
Deep fertile soil with drainage; warm humid lowland conditions. Provide airflow and avoid standing water unless the species is being grown in a deliberately wet habitat.
Soil and water
Deep fertile soil with drainage; warm humid lowland conditions; preserve native drainage and organic-matter conditions rather than treating all tropical fruit trees alike.
Sun and humidity
Most plants in this group prefer bright light; young trees may need shelter while roots establish. Humidity should be paired with airflow, not stagnant enclosure.
Seasonal changes
Flowering and harvest vary with local wet/dry or cool/warm cycles. Adjust irrigation to the species' native rhythm and protect warm-tropical plants during cool weather.
Propagation
Fresh seed 2–8 weeks; grafting and cuttings for selected trees. Seedlings may vary in fruit quality and maturity; use grafting or other clonal methods when a named selection must be preserved.
Flowering, fruiting, and harvest
Large syncarp, often summer or wet-season; yellow arils around seeds. Local climate, cultivar, rootstock, pollination, and rainfall can shift the calendar substantially.
Fruit and uses
The ripe fruit is eaten fresh and may be used in drinks, preserves, desserts, or regional savory preparations. Handle ripe fruit carefully because many tropical fruits soften rapidly after harvest.
