Contents
Description
Artocarpus Integer, also known as cempedak or chempedak, is a tropical fruit tree that belongs to the Moraceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. The fruit of this tree is similar to jackfruit, but smaller in size and sweeter in taste. It is commonly consumed fresh or cooked in various dishes. The tree is also cultivated for its timber, which is used in construction and furniture-making.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Moraceae |
| Genus | Artocarpus |
Appearance
The Artocarpus Integer tree can grow up to 20 meters in height, with a trunk diameter of up to 60 centimeters. The leaves are dark green and can reach up to 30 centimeters in length. The fruit of this tree is oval-shaped, with a rough exterior that is covered in small pyramidal protrusions. It can grow up to 25 centimeters in length and weigh up to 2 kilograms. The flesh of the fruit is yellow-orange in color and has a sweet, fragrant aroma. It contains numerous seeds that are covered in a white, fibrous material.
Care Guide
Artocarpus Integer trees require regular watering, especially during the growing season. They prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilization should be done every three months using a balanced fertilizer. The tree requires full sun exposure to thrive, and it is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Artocarpus Integer trees are susceptible to various pests and diseases, including fruit flies, mealybugs, and powdery mildew. Fruit flies can be controlled using sticky traps or insecticides. Mealybugs can be removed manually or treated with insecticidal soap. Powdery mildew can be prevented by ensuring proper air circulation around the tree and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Artocarpus Integer trees are native to Southeast Asia, where they grow in tropical rainforests and lowland areas. They prefer warm, humid climates and can tolerate occasional flooding. The tree is widely cultivated in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand, and it has been introduced to other tropical regions around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the fruit of Artocarpus Integer edible?
A: Yes, the fruit is edible and commonly consumed fresh or cooked in various dishes.
Q: How tall can an Artocarpus Integer tree grow?
A: The tree can grow up to 20 meters in height.
Q: What is the ideal soil type for Artocarpus Integer?
A: The tree prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: Where is Artocarpus Integer native to?
A: The tree is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand.
Related Plants
- Artocarpus altilis – Breadfruit
- Artocarpus heterophyllus – Jackfruit
- Artocarpus odoratissimus – Marang
- Artocarpus sericicarpus – Pedalai
References
- Artocarpus integer. (2021, February 24). Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artocarpus_integer
- Cempedak. (n.d.). Purdue University. https://hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/cempedak.html
- Lim, T. K. (2012). Edible Medicinal and Non-Medicinal Plants: Volume 5, Fruits. Springer Science & Business Media.
