Jackfruit is a fascinating and versatile tropical fruit, known for its distinctive appearance and unique culinary uses. Here are some intriguing facts about jackfruit.
Interesting Facts About Jackfruit:
Jackfruit holds the record for being the largest fruit that grows on a tree. It can reach up to 80 pounds (36 kilograms) in weight and grow as long as 35 inches (90 centimeters). The sheer size of the jackfruit makes it a standout in the fruit world.
World’s Heaviest Jackfruit
The largest recorded jackfruit weighed an astonishing 120 pounds (54 kilograms), surpassing the average size. This enormous jackfruit was grown in Thailand and set a Guinness World Record for its massive weight.
Resemblance to Durian
Jackfruit and durian share some similarities in appearance, particularly in their spiky exteriors. Both fruits have large, spiky shells that protect their edible flesh. However, while jackfruit has a green or yellowish exterior with small, blunt spikes, durian’s spikes are more pronounced and sharp. The internal texture and taste of the two fruits are quite different, with jackfruit being sweeter and more fibrous compared to durian’s strong odor and creamy texture.
Growing Regions
Jackfruit thrives in tropical and subtropical regions. It is native to southwest India but is now widely cultivated in countries such as Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and parts of Africa and Central America. The fruit requires a warm climate with plenty of rainfall to grow successfully.
Blooming Period
Jackfruit trees typically bloom between April and June, depending on the region. The flowers are small, yellowish-green, and clustered on the trunk and large branches of the tree. After pollination, the fruit develops and can take up to 6 to 8 months to mature.
Nutritional Powerhouse
Jackfruit is rich in nutrients. It provides a good amount of vitamin C, potassium, fiber, and antioxidants. The fruit is also a source of B vitamins, including B6, which is essential for brain health and metabolism.
Unique Texture
The texture of jackfruit is often compared to that of meat, especially when it’s unripe. Its fibrous, chewy texture makes it a popular ingredient in vegetarian and vegan dishes. When ripe, the flesh is sweet and slightly stringy.
Historical Roots
The jackfruit tree (Artocarpus heterophyllus) is native to southwest India but has spread to other tropical regions over centuries. It is one of the oldest cultivated fruits in the world.
World’s Largest Fruit Harvest
In 2020, a farm in Sri Lanka harvested over 150 jackfruits from a single tree in one season, setting a record for the highest number of jackfruits harvested from one tree. The record-breaking harvest highlighted the tree’s productivity and the fruit’s popularity in the region.