Artocarpus heterophyllus commonly called Jackfruit originated in India and South East Asia. In 1887 it was introduced in Florida. It has since adapted well in tropical climate and is fairly popular in Jamaica, Brazil, Suriname and Guyana.
Jackfruit trees are stately, growing to an enormous height of sometimes 70ft to 90 ft tall and Jackfruit is the largest tree-borne fruit in the world. It is edible and yellow in colour. Large fruits may have from 100 to 500 seeds.
The skin (rind) is covered with hard cone-like knobs. The green fruits ripen to greenish-yellow or brown with a soft custard-yellow inner flesh. Ripe unopened fruits have an offensive aroma like decayed onions, while the aromatic pulp smells like banana and pineapple. The green fruits may be prepared like a vegetable. Ripe fruits may be eaten fresh or cooked. Seeds may be boiled and roasted. This fruit is very nutritious.
Jackfruit grows well in well-drained soil in full sun.
There are many Jackfruit trees in Canal on the West Bank Demerara.
I always enjoy eating Jackfruit.
Until next week, Happy Gardening.
