The Jackfruit plant (Artocarpus heterophyllus) is a large tropical tree known for its massive, unique fruit, which is one of the largest fruits to grow on a tree. Native to southwestern India, it is widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. The jackfruit tree is admired for its versatility, with its fruit being used in various culinary dishes, from savory to sweet. Here's a detailed description of the jackfruit plant:
Appearance:
Size: The jackfruit tree can grow to a considerable height of 30–80 feet (9–24 meters), depending on its growing conditions and cultivation practices. However, it can be pruned to a smaller size in orchards or gardens.
Trunk and Branches: The trunk of the jackfruit tree is thick and sturdy, with a rough, grayish-brown bark. The branches spread out wide and are somewhat irregular in shape.
Leaves: The leaves of the jackfruit tree are large, dark green, and leathery, with a glossy surface. They are simple, oval or elliptical in shape and can grow up to 8–12 inches (20–30 cm) long. The leaves are arranged alternately along the branches.
Flowers: The flowers of the jackfruit tree are small and inconspicuous, typically yellow-green or pale green. They are unisexual, meaning that male and female flowers grow separately on the same tree. The flowers grow in clusters, and they eventually lead to the development of the fruit.
Fruit (Jackfruit):
Size and Shape: Jackfruit is known for its impressive size, making it one of the largest fruits that grow on a tree. The fruit can reach up to 36 inches (90 cm) in length and weigh between 10–80 pounds (4.5–36 kg), although the average size is about 20–30 pounds (9–14 kg). It has a distinct oval or oblong shape.
Skin: The jackfruit's skin is green or yellow when unripe and turns yellow as it ripens. The surface is thick, coarse, and covered with spiky projections, giving it a rough texture. The rind is tough and must be peeled away to access the edible flesh inside.
Edible Flesh: Inside the jackfruit, there are large, fleshy pods that are golden yellow when ripe. The flesh is sweet, aromatic, and fibrous, with a flavor that is a combination of banana, pineapple, and apple. These pods are used in both raw and cooked forms. The jackfruit’s seeds, which are large and flat, are also edible when boiled or roasted.
Ripening Process: The jackfruit does not ripen all at once. The fruit typically ripens over a period of several weeks, with the outer skin changing color and the pods inside becoming sweet and tender.
Growing Conditions:
Light: The jackfruit tree thrives in full sun and requires bright sunlight for optimal growth. It prefers a warm climate and cannot tolerate frost or cold temperatures.
Watering: Jackfruit trees require consistent watering, especially during the dry season. However, they do not like waterlogged soil, so the soil should be well-draining. The tree can tolerate drought to some extent once it is well established, but regular rainfall or irrigation is ideal.
Soil: Well-draining, rich, and fertile soil is preferred for jackfruit trees. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral in pH. Jackfruit trees are relatively adaptable to different soil types but will grow best in deep, loamy soils.
Temperature: The jackfruit plant thrives in tropical and subtropical climates with temperatures ranging from 70–95°F (21–35°C). It does not tolerate temperatures below 50°F (10°C), and frost can be damaging to the plant.
Care:
Fertilization: Jackfruit trees benefit from periodic fertilization, especially during the growing season. Organic fertilizers or balanced chemical fertilizers can be applied to promote healthy growth and fruiting. The addition of compost also improves soil fertility.
Pruning: Pruning is necessary to maintain the tree’s shape and health. Removing dead or damaged branches, as well as thinning the canopy, helps improve air circulation and sunlight penetration. Light pruning also encourages fruit production.
Pollination: While jackfruit trees are self-pollinating, cross-pollination can help increase the yield. In some areas, hand-pollination is practiced in commercial orchards to improve fruit set.
Uses:
Fruit: Jackfruit is incredibly versatile. The ripe fruit can be eaten fresh or used in desserts, smoothies, or as a sweet treat. Unripe jackfruit is commonly used in savory dishes, often as a meat substitute in vegetarian and vegan recipes due to its texture, which mimics shredded meat when cooked. The seeds can be boiled, roasted, or ground into flour.
Wood: The wood of the jackfruit tree is dense and strong. It is used for furniture, cabinetry, and carving, as it has a fine grain and a warm color.
Leaves: The leaves of the jackfruit tree are sometimes used for wrapping food in some cultures.
Health Benefits:
Jackfruit is highly nutritious, providing a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins (such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and several B vitamins), minerals (like potassium, magnesium, and iron), and antioxidants. It is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy addition to a balanced diet. The fruit also contains compounds that may help regulate blood sugar and support digestive health.
Cultural and Economic Importance:
Jackfruit is an important food source in many tropical countries, especially in South and Southeast Asia. It is often referred to as the "poor man’s fruit" due to its abundance and ability to feed large families. The tree also holds cultural significance in various regions, where it is used in religious ceremonies, celebrations, and traditional practices.
Conclusion:
The jackfruit plant is a remarkable tree that produces a large, sweet, and versatile fruit. Known for its towering height, broad leaves, and spiky fruit, it is a valuable plant in tropical and subtropical climates. Whether used in cooking, for its wood, or for its health benefits, the jackfruit tree is a highly beneficial and interesting plant to grow. Its adaptability and nutritional value make it an essential crop in many parts of the world.
✅Planting And Care
✅Sunlight
Sunlight of more than 6 hours a day is ideal for flowering and fruit development of the plant.
✅Soil
The soil should be well drained, fertile and rich in organic content.
✅Watering
Poke your finger/plain small stick into the soil to check the moisture.
Apply 4 cup(approx. 200 ml) of water when the top soil (1-2 inch) in the pot feels dry to touch.
Do not overwater the plant.
As a rule of thumb, water the plants thoroughly in summer and reduce watering in winter and rainy season.
Water should be applied preferably in the morning or evening.
✅Application of Fertilizer
Before application of fertilizer loosen the topsoil without disturbing the roots of the plant so, it can uptake the nutrients and moisture easily.
Apply organic fertilizer once a month during the main growing season (December-February)
Apply water immediately after application of fertilizer.
✅Re-potting
When a plant outgrows in current pot, re-pot with fresh potting soil and some fertilizer.
Do the re-potting late evening and keep the plant in shady area for 2 to 3 days and then move the plant in its suitable climatic condition.
✅Plant Protection
Remove dead, infected or damaged plant parts and discard them away from the plants.
For any insect attack or disease, you can use Neem oil, Eucalyptus oil or Citrus oil spray for primary treatment.
✅Don’ts
Do not over-water the plant especially when pot does not have drainage holes.
REC: After getting (( VERY VERY IMPORTANT )) the plants, AVOID exposing them to direct sunlight as it can cause leaf BURN. AVOID overwatering your plants. The primary reason for outdoor plant demise is excessive watering.
Planting: Excavate a hole double the size in width and depth compared to the polybag that contains your plant. Fill it up, blending compost with the topsoil. Insert the plant into the newly loosened soil. It is essential to water both Rare Live Plant & Regular (Morning 300ml).
NOTE 1: The plant may appear dry due to transportation time.Aquinnah however, the plant is still healthy because it is an outdoor plant. Place it back in the soil, apply the included fertilizer, water it, and monitor it for a week. It will restore its freshness.
Note 2: image is for reference only. Appearance of actual product may vary based on factors such as climate, age, and height.
✅ Easy To Grow
✅Hybrid Varient
✅Suitable for Indian Climate
✅best plant for garden.
✅Safe and Good Packaging
✅Easy Grow in pot