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Description
Artocarpus Altilis, commonly known as breadfruit, is a species of tree in the mulberry family. It is native to the South Pacific and is widely cultivated in tropical regions for its edible fruit. Breadfruit is a staple food in many Pacific Island and Caribbean countries. The fruit is large, round, and green with a rough surface. It can weigh up to 5 pounds and measure up to a foot in diameter. Breadfruit is rich in carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. It is also gluten-free and low in fat.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Moraceae |
| Genus | Artocarpus |
| Species | Artocarpus Altilis |
Appearance
The breadfruit tree is a large evergreen tree that can grow up to 80 feet tall. It has a dense and spreading crown with broad, glossy, and dark green leaves that are deeply lobed. The leaves can measure up to 2 feet long and 1 foot wide. The tree produces male and female flowers on separate inflorescences. The male flowers are small and cylindrical while the female flowers are larger and round. The fruit is green when immature and turns yellow or brown when ripe. It has a spongy and fibrous flesh with a core that contains numerous seeds.
Care Guide
Breadfruit trees require a warm and humid climate with temperatures between 60°F and 85°F. They grow best in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The tree needs regular watering, especially during dry periods. It is also important to fertilize the tree every 6 months with a balanced fertilizer. Breadfruit trees require full sun exposure to produce fruit. They are hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Breadfruit trees are susceptible to several pests and diseases, including scales, mealybugs, mites, aphids, and fruit flies. The tree can also be affected by fungal diseases such as anthracnose, leaf spot, and root rot. It is important to monitor the tree regularly and treat any pest or disease problems promptly.
Habitat
Breadfruit trees are native to the South Pacific, specifically in the islands of Polynesia. They are also found in other tropical regions such as the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, and Africa. The tree prefers coastal areas with sandy soil and high humidity. It can also grow in inland areas as long as there is enough rainfall and irrigation.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the history of breadfruit cultivation?
A: Breadfruit was first cultivated in the South Pacific by the Polynesians over 3000 years ago. It was later introduced to other tropical regions by European explorers and traders in the 18th century.
Q: How is breadfruit cooked?
A: Breadfruit can be boiled, roasted, baked, fried, or grilled. It is often used as a substitute for potatoes or rice in many dishes.
Q: What are the health benefits of breadfruit?
A: Breadfruit is a good source of dietary fiber, potassium, calcium, iron, and vitamins A and C. It can help regulate digestion, lower blood pressure, strengthen bones, and boost the immune system.
Q: Can breadfruit be grown in temperate regions?
A: Breadfruit trees require a tropical or subtropical climate to thrive. They can only be grown in temperate regions in greenhouses or as indoor plants.
Related Plants
- Artocarpus camansi (breadnut)
- Artocarpus heterophyllus (jackfruit)
- Artocarpus odoratissimus (marang)
- Artocarpus lakoocha (monkey jackfruit)
References
- Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. (1990). Breadfruit Artocarpus altilis (Parkinson) Fosberg. Retrieved from http://www.fao.org/docrep/t0646e/T0646E00.htm
- Morton, J. F. (1987). Breadfruit. In Fruits of Warm Climates (pp. 155-168). Julia F. Morton Publisher.
- National Tropical Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Artocarpus altilis. Retrieved from https://ntbg.org/plants/plant_details.php?plantid=2039
