Breadfruit
Artocarpus altilis
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Description
Breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis) is a tropical tree native to the Indo-Malay region and widely cultivated in the Pacific Islands. It plays a crucial role in agroecology and regenerative agriculture due to its high yield of nutritious food with minimal inputs. Breadfruit is a canopy layer tree in food forests, providing shade and habitat for various species, thus enhancing biodiversity. Its deep root system stabilizes soil, preventing erosion and improving soil structure. Historically, breadfruit has been a staple food for many Pacific Island cultures, valued for its versatility and nutritional content. It can be integrated into guilds with nitrogen-fixing plants like pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) and ground covers like sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) to enhance soil fertility and suppress weeds.
Growing Details
Breadfruit trees thrive in well-drained, sandy loam soils with a pH of 6.1 to 7.4. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. Mulching with organic materials like straw or wood chips helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion planting with nitrogen-fixing plants like pigeon pea can enhance soil fertility. Breadfruit trees require full sun and regular watering, especially during dry periods. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Fire Wood
Building Wood
Windbreak
Erosion Preventing
Visual Appeal
Easy Propagating
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Artocarpus altilis</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Indo-Malay region, Pacific Islands
applicable geo region: Tropical regions worldwide
language used: en
Flowering:
beginning
of March for 30 days
Harvest:
middle
of September for 45 days
Seed Start:
?
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(5/5)
edible uses: The fruit of the breadfruit tree is highly versatile. It can be baked, boiled, roasted, or fried, often used as a substitute for potatoes or rice. Breadfruit is rich in carbohydrates and provides a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins (such as vitamin C and B vitamins), and minerals like potassium. The fruit is typically harvested when mature but still firm, and it can be stored for several weeks if kept cool and dry. Caution should be taken as the latex can cause skin irritation in some indiv
Medicinal Rating:
(2/5)
medicinal uses: Traditionally, breadfruit has been used in folk medicine to treat skin ailments and as a poultice for wounds. The latex from the tree is used in some cultures for treating skin infections. However, these uses should be approached with caution and local knowledge, as the latex can be irritating.
health concerns: The latex of the breadfruit tree can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
other uses: The wood of the breadfruit tree is lightweight and resistant to termites, making it useful for building and crafting. The leaves can be used as animal fodder, and the tree's latex has been used as a natural adhesive.
Scientific Literature
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Botanical data
specie: Artocarpus altilis
common names: Breadfruit; Ulu; Kulu
family: Moraceae
sub family:
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Artocarpus
Growing Conditions
area needed: 10.0 m
spacing: 8.0 m
growing difficulty: Low
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC / 0ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 27ยฐC / 15ยฐC / 35ยฐC
water demands: High
humidity: Medium
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: High
hardness:
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(10/10)
first harvest: 3 years
life span: 50 years
succession: Pioneer
growth rate: Fast
max height: 21.0 m
max width: 12.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Monoecious
growth details: Breadfruit trees thrive in well-drained, sandy loam soils with a pH of 6.1 to 7.4. Before planting, enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. Mulching with organic materials like straw or wood chips helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Companion planting with nitrogen-fixing plants like pigeon pea can enhance soil fertility. Breadfruit trees require full sun and regular watering, especially during dry periods. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot
Potential Disturbances: Breadfruit can be challenged by fruit flies, mealybugs, and scale insects. Encourage natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings to manage these pests. Companion planting with marigolds can help repel nematodes. Neem oil and garlic sprays are effective organic solutions for managing pest populations. Regular monitoring and maintaining tree health through proper cultural practices are key to preventing infestations.
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