Jackfruit Seeds, World Largest Tropical Fruit, Fresh Viable Seeds

 Jackfruit Seeds, World Largest Tropical Fruit, Fresh Viable Seeds

Artocarpus heterophyllus, commonly known as jackfruit, is a tropical tree belonging to the Moraceae family, widely cultivated for its large, distinctive fruits. Native to the rainforests of the Western Ghats of India, jackfruit is now cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world for its edible fruits and other uses.

Physical Description:
Tree: Jackfruit trees are large, evergreen trees that can reach heights of 10 to 20 meters (33 to 66 feet) or more. They have a dense, spreading canopy with thick, leathery leaves.
Leaves: The leaves are alternately arranged, elliptical to oblong in shape, glossy green, and typically 15 to 25 centimeters long.
Fruit: The jackfruit is the largest tree-borne fruit in the world, weighing up to 35 kilograms (77 pounds) or more. It has a spiky, greenish-yellow to yellowish-brown outer rind with hexagonal patterns. Inside, it contains numerous individual yellow-orange colored arils (pods) that surround large seeds.

Cultivation and Habitat:
Origin: Native to the rainforests of the Western Ghats in southwestern India.
Climate: Jackfruit thrives in tropical and subtropical climates with high humidity and abundant rainfall. It is sensitive to frost and prefers well-drained, fertile soil.

Uses:
Edible Fruit: The ripe arils of jackfruit are sweet and fragrant, with a flavor reminiscent of a combination of pineapple, banana, and mango. They can be eaten fresh or used in various culinary dishes, both sweet and savory.
Seeds: The seeds of jackfruit are also edible after cooking. They are often boiled, roasted, or used in curries.
Timber: The wood of jackfruit trees is durable and used in furniture making and construction.
Latex: Jackfruit trees produce latex, which can be harvested and used in various industrial applications.

Nutritional Value:
Jackfruit is rich in carbohydrates, dietary fiber, vitamins (such as vitamin C and vitamin B6), and minerals (such as potassium and magnesium).

Cultural Significance:
Jackfruit holds cultural significance in many tropical regions, where it is often used in traditional ceremonies, festivals, and cuisines. It is sometimes referred to as the "vegetarian meat" due to its texture and versatility in culinary applications.

In summary, Artocarpus heterophyllus (jackfruit) is a remarkable tropical tree known for its large and nutritious fruits, valued for their flavor, versatility, and cultural importance in various parts of the world.