Breadfruit

(Artocarpus altilis)

Breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Artocarpus altilis, commonly known as Breadfruit, is an evergreen tree native to the tropical rainforests of New Guinea, the Indo-Malay region, and western Pacific islands. It can reach a height of 26 meters (85 feet) and develops a broad and spreading canopy. The tree is notable for its large, deeply cut, glossy green leaves and its ability to produce large quantities of starchy fruits. The fruits are roughly the size of a grapefruit and have a bumpy green skin. Breadfruit trees are monoecious, with male and female flowers on the same tree; the male flowers emerge first, followed by the female flowers. The fruit is a staple food in tropical regions and is highly valued for its versatility and high yield.

Breadfruit is a key food security crop due to its high productivity and minimal maintenance requirements. It is often grown in home gardens and agricultural systems in tropical regions. The tree’s wood is also used for construction and craft purposes. In cultivation, Breadfruit thrives in a warm, humid climate with temperatures ranging from 16–38 °C (61–100 °F) and annual rainfall between 2,000–2,500 mm (80–100 in). It prefers full sun to part shade and can adapt to a range of soil types, from sand to clay loam, with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.1–7.4). While it is propagated mainly by seeds, vegetative propagation through root suckers is common for seedless varieties. The tree’s roots can be invasive, so it should be planted with care to avoid damage to nearby structures.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 30-50 feet
  • Width: 30-50 feet
  • Growth Rate: Rapid
  • Flower Color: Green, Yellow
  • Flowering Season: Winter, Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: High
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption.

Natural Habitat

Tropical rainforests of New Guinea, the Indo-Malay region, and western Pacific islands

Other Names

Common Names: Fruta-Pão, Arbol De Pan, Breadnut, Brotfruchtbaum, Jack-Fruit, Lavapen, Mapen, Palo De Pan, Pan, Pana Cimarroma

Scientific Names: , Artocarpus altilis, Artocarpus communis, Artocarpus mariannensis, Artocarpus camansi, Artocarpus blancoi, Artocarpus incisus, Artocarpus multifidus, Artocarpus pinnatisectus, Artocarpus altilis var. non-seminiferus

GBIF Accepted Name: Artocarpus altilis (Parkinson) Fosberg