What Is A Breadfruit Tree Learn About Breadfruit Tree Facts

The breadfruit tree attains a height of about 85 feet (26 m.) and has large, thick, deeply notched leaves. The entire tree yields a milky juice called latex when cut, which is useful for a number of things, most notably, boat caulking. The trees have both male and female flowers growing on the same tree (monoecious).

Why is breadfruit called breadfruit?

Breadfruit derives its name from the fact that the fruits, when baked or roasted, have a starchy, dense consistency similar to bread or root crops such as potatoes, yams, or sweet potatoes.

Who discovered breadfruit?

History | Global Breadfruit. Originally from present-day New Guinea, breadfruit has been cultivated for over 3,000 years and was introduced to the Western world by British explorers. In 1769, Captain James Cook sailed to Tahiti and discovered breadfruit.

How long does it take for a breadfruit tree to produce fruit?

Breadfruit grown from seed will fruit in 5 to 10 years. Seedless varieties must be vegetatively propagated and this method is also preferred for seeded types as the trees are clones of the mother plant.

Why is breadfruit important?

Breadfruit is a tree. The seeds and fruit of breadfruit are eaten as foods. The roots, leaves, and latex are used to make medicine. Breadfruit is used for arthritis, asthma, back pain, wound healing, ear infections, and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Is breadfruit a fruit or vegetable?

Breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis) is the fruit of the breadfruit tree, a member of the mulberry family, native to the South Pacific. Generally, people refer to the prickly green food as a fruit when consumed ripe and as a vegetable when consumed underripe. Breadfruit is starchy—similar to a potato.

Can you eat breadfruit raw?

Breadfruit can be eaten raw when ripe or cooked when unripe. Use common potato cooking methods to cook unripe breadfruit. The white flesh has a bread-like texture and a flavour somewhat like an artichoke or chestnut.

Is breadfruit man made?

Breadfruit originated in New Guinea and the Indo-Malay region and was spread throughout the vast Pacific by voyaging islanders. ... “regarding food, if a man plant 10 (breadfruit) trees in his life he would completely fulfill his duty to his own as well as future generations…”

Is jackfruit and breadfruit the same?

Breadfruit is closely related to the breadnut, from which it might have been naturally selected. It is noticeably similar in appearance to its relative of the same genus, the jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus).

Is Breadfruit the same as durian?

Several other members of the genus Durio produce edible fruits and are locally cultivated. Durian is also related to breadfruit (Artocarpis communis) and jackfruit (A. heterophyllus), which are used similarly throughout tropical Asia and the South Pacific.

Should breadfruit be refrigerated?

Ripe breadfruit is best used right away, although it can be kept in the refrigerator for a few days before using or stored in the freezer for later use. Immature “green” breadfruit should be avoided!

How much does breadfruit cost?

The wholesale price is only US$0.50 to US$0.80 per fruit weighing an average of four pounds. The local price for processed breadfruit is US$3-5 per pound.

Where do breadfruit trees grow?

The fruit is grown in South Florida in the United States or imported from the West Indies, particularly Jamaica, from June through October, sometimes year around, and is found in local specialty markets. The breadfruit tree attains a height of about 85 feet (26 m.) and has large, thick, deeply notched leaves.

Is breadfruit high in sugar?

For a happier gut, it's best to load up on carbs from both sources that are higher as well as lower in fiber and be sure to spread your fiber intake throughout the day. A 1-cup serving of breadfruit has about 24 grams of sugar, but this level will vary depending on ripeness.

Where did breadfruit come from?

Breadfruit is believed to have originated in New Guinea and the Indo-Malay region and was spread throughout the vast Pacific by voyaging islanders.

What are the benefits of breadfruit leaves?

Breadfruit leaves (Arthocarpus altilis) can be used for the treatment of various diseases, such as liver disease, hepatitis, enlarged spleen, heart, kidney, high blood pressure and diabetes, using breadfruit leaves are rich in compounds of flavonoids to prevent the increase in blood cholesterol levels , It also will ...

Is breadfruit healthier than potatoes?

Breadfruit is high in complex carbohydrates, low in fat, and cholesterol and gluten free. It has a moderate glycemic index (blood sugar shock) compared to white potato, white rice, white bread, and taro.

Can diabetics eat breadfruit?

The fibre present in breadfruit helps to control diabetes by reducing the absorption of glucose from ingested food. Consuming breadfruit on a regular basis can also reduce the risk of developing colon cancer.

Is breadfruit a starch?

Breadfruit is a starchy, carbohydrate fruit equivalent to staple field crops such as rice, maize, potatoes, and sweet potatoes. Despite all the starch, breadfruit definitely doesn't lack in nutrients. A single cup of breadfruit has more potassium than three bananas.

How do you know if breadfruit has gone bad?

If the fruit feels soft, even before cutting, it means the pulp has started to go bad. Breadfruit can be cut into slices before removing the skin. Even with a firm texture, it is easy to cut through.

What can you do with breadfruit?

Breadfruit is often featured in Sri Lankan coconut curries, but it is so versatile it can be candied, pickled, mashed, sautéed, roasted, and fried. Before cutting into breadfruit, it is a good idea to oil your hands, knife, and cutting board so the sticky latex doesn't adhere. Peel the breadfruit and discard the core.

What does breadfruit smell like?

The smell you'll pick up will be one that's distinctly sweet. Cooking it while it's ripe will produce a smell just like a loaf of bread – earthy, yeasty, and with a warmth that's sure to pique your appetite. Overripe breadfruit will also smell quite sweet.