Jackfruit is a delicious fruit that is enjoyed worldwide. It is believed to have originated in the southwestern rainforests of India and is mainly found in tropical regions of India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. It is also found in tropical regions of Africa and South America, and is even the national fruit of Bangladesh. The jackfruit tree can grow up to 9-21m (30-70 ft) in height and is an evergreen tree. Its dark green leaves are large – up to 15 cm (6 in) in length – and elliptic to oval in shape, with a glossy, leathery, stiff texture. When juvenile and on young shoots, these leaves are often deeply lobed.

The tree is monoecious, which means that male and female flowers are found on the same individual trees but on separate short, stout stems. These stems sprout from older branches and the trunk, while male spikes are located on younger branches above female spikes. The tiny male flowers are arranged in oblong clusters that are 2 to 4 inches (5-10 cm) long, while the female flower clusters are elliptic or rounded. The fruit is one of the largest, with a weight of up to 36 kg and a length of up to 90 cm (36 in) and a diameter of up to 50 cm (20 in).

In general, seeds are harvested from ripe fruit and then sun-dried for long-term storage. These seeds serve as the starting point for new plantations. Dried seeds are commonly used to cook vegetables. Additionally, the wood of the tree is utilized for musical instrument production, as well as the manufacturing of furniture, doors, and windows.

Αrtocarpus heterophyiius – Jackfruit – Jack fruit

Αrtocarpus heterophyiius – Jackfruit – Jack fruit : Young Piants