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breadfruit

Scientific Name: Artocarpus

Family: Moraceae

Category: Dicot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Breadfruit: The Starchy Staple

The breadfruit, often touted as a "wonder food" or "superfood," is gaining recognition for its nutritional value and potential to address food security. It's a versatile fruit that can be cooked and eaten at all stages of development.

Considerations for Pets

  • The text mentions the presence of "milky latex" in the breadfruit tree.

Considerations for Children

  • The text mentions the presence of "milky latex" in the breadfruit tree.

Scientific Classification and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Artocarpus altilis
  • Common Names: Breadfruit, Ulu (in Samoa, American Samoa, and Hawaii), Breadnut (for seeded varieties)
  • Family: Moraceae (Fig family)
  • Etymology: The scientific name is derived from Greek (artos = bread, karpos = fruit). Altilis means "fat."

Distribution and Habitat

The breadfruit is believed to be indigenous to the Malay Archipelago. It has since spread throughout Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands, and the tropics, including Jamaica and Far North Queensland (Australia).

  • It was domesticated in New Guinea and Oceania.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • The breadfruit tree is described as handsome and fast-growing, reaching heights of 8-26 meters (approximately 26-85 feet).
  • It often has a clear trunk up to 6 meters (20 feet).
  • The trees have large, dark green, lobed, and leathery leaves.
  • The fruit itself is large, ranging in size up to that of a "football," with a prickly or hexangle-patterned rind. It's typically yellowish-green in color.
  • Ripe fruit has a creamy, custard-like flavor.
  • When mature, the fruit is described as firm and has a starchy texture and fragrance similar to freshly baked bread.

Traditional Uses and Cultural Significance

  • In Hawaii, the traditional variety of breadfruit, known as "Ulu," was one of the "canoe plants" brought by early Polynesian settlers.
  • The Breadfruit Festival is held annually in August.

Quirky Facts

  • Captain Bligh of the infamous mutiny on the Bounty was associated with breadfruit as he transported it to Jamaica.
  • Moderately ripe breadfruit, when cooked, tastes potato-like.

Further Resources

  • National Tropical Botanical Garden
  • Breadfruit Institute