No images found for this plant ID: 3061.
Ensure images are uploaded to the Media Library and tagged with "3061" in the "plant_image_tag" taxonomy.
jackfruit
Scientific Name: Artocarpus heterophyllus
Family: Moraceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Tree
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Jackfruit: The "Miracle" Fruit
The jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus), also known as jack tree, jakfruit, or simply jack/jak, is gaining popularity as a versatile food source and meat substitute. It's known for its immense size and potential culinary uses.
Considerations for Pets
- The text mentions that the jackfruit is the largest tree-borne fruit, growing up to 80 or even 90 pounds.
- The fruit has a spiny exterior.
Scientific Classification and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Artocarpus heterophyllus
- Common Names: Jackfruit, jack tree, jakfruit, jack, jak
- Family: Mulberry and fig family (Moraceae)
- Synonyms: The text mentions the scientific name Artocarpus heterophyllus may also serve as a synonym for jackfruit tree.
Distribution and Habitat
- Believed to be indigenous to the rain forests of the Western Ghats of India.
- Spread early on to other parts of India and Southeast Asia.
- Cultivated at low elevations throughout India.
- Also found in South and Southeast Asia.
Morphological Characteristics
- The jackfruit is the largest tree-borne fruit in the world.
- Fruits can weigh up to 75-80 pounds, sometimes even 90 pounds.
- Average size is 1-2 feet long and 9-12 inches wide.
- Skin is described as green-yellow and knobbly-skinned (spiny).
- The jackfruit tree bears massive fruits from the trunk and lower branches.
- The tree has broad, waxy leaves.
- The tree is described as a large, tropical, milky-juiced tree with stiff and glossy green leaves.
Culinary Uses and Interesting Facts
- The jackfruit is being hailed as a "miracle" crop that could save millions from starvation.
- It has a distinctive, musky smell.
- Young green jackfruit can be used as a shredded meat substitute, especially for vegan dishes.
- It's similar in texture to chicken or pulled pork.
- It is rich in energy, dietary fiber, minerals, and vitamins yet contains no saturated fats or cholesterol.
Resources
- Fairchild Tropical Garden (mentioned in relation to grafting).
- Behr.com (referenced in relation to "Jackfruit" as a color).