Jackfruit
Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.
Location
2 Wheeler parking
Family
Moraceae
Common names
Jackfruit, Kathal, Halasu (ಹಳಸು in Kannada), Panasa
Native range
Western Ghats of India and possibly parts of Bangladesh and Sri Lanka; now widely cultivated in tropical regions of Asia and beyond
Habitat
Commonly found in tropical lowland forests and extensively cultivated in home gardens, orchards, and agroforestry systems. It prefers humid, warm climates and is grown throughout South and Southeast Asia. The tree is often planted along roadsides, in backyards, and on farm boundaries.
Flowering
December – March (may vary regionally)
Fruiting
March – August
Conservation status
Least Concern (LC); widely cultivated and not at risk
About this plant
Artocarpus heterophyllus has large, glossy, dark green leaves that are simple, alternate, and leathery, usually 10–20 cm long. The species is monoecious, producing both male and female inflorescences on the same plant. The fruit is a large compound syncarp, oblong to round, with a rough, spiky green to yellowish skin. It is the largest tree-borne fruit in the world, sometimes weighing up to 35 kg. The edible pulp is yellow to orange, sweet, and aromatic, enclosing large seeds that are also edible when cooked.
Uses
Highly valued as a fruit crop in tropical Asia. Ripe fruits are consumed fresh or used in desserts, while unripe fruits are cooked as vegetables. Seeds are roasted or boiled and eaten as snacks or added to curries. In traditional medicine, various parts of the tree—including bark, latex, leaves, and seeds—are used to treat diarrhea, skin ailments, and respiratory disorders. The wood (jackwood) is durable and termite-resistant and is widely used for furniture, musical instruments, and construction.
Growing conditions
Prefers full sunlight and thrives in deep, well-drained, fertile soils. Requires warm temperatures and high humidity and does not tolerate frost. Grows best in tropical climates with annual rainfall of 1000–2400 mm. Young plants require protection from strong winds
Habit
Large evergreen tree with a dense crown and a straight trunk, growing to a height of 10–20 m or more. It has spreading branches and exudes white latex when cut.