Jackfruit
Artocarpus heterophyllus · Moraceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around jackfruit and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Flowering
- Insignificant flowers; fruiting year-round in tropical climates
- Adult size
- 8 to 15 m in height
- Growth
- Fast in warm climates
- Hardiness
- Tropical (12 °C minimum)
- Origin
- India and Southeast Asia
- Soil type
- Rich, well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral
Care
Watering
Water regularly and abundantly during the growing season, keeping the soil moist without waterlogging. Reduce watering during the dry season but never let the soil dry out completely. In containers, check substrate moisture before each watering.
Light Exposure
Place the jackfruit in full sun or very light partial shade. This fruit tree requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal fruiting. A south or west-facing exposure is ideal for container-grown specimens in temperate climates.
Soil and Substrate
Choose rich, deep potting mix enriched with organic matter. Drainage must be excellent to prevent root rot. A slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.0) promotes nutrient uptake.
Fertilization
Apply balanced fertilizer monthly during the growing season (spring-summer). Choose a formula enriched in potassium and magnesium to encourage fruiting. Reduce or stop feeding in autumn and winter.
Pruning and Structure
Prune lightly to maintain a compact shape and improve crown airflow. Remove dead or crossing branches. Moderate pruning in late winter helps stimulate spring growth.
Diseases and Pests
Jackfruit dislikes stagnant moisture, which causes root rot and fungal issues. Indoors or in humid climates, ensure good ventilation and drainage. Watch for mealybugs and whiteflies; treat with soapy water spray for light infestations.
Did you know?
The jackfruit is the largest fruit produced by a tree: it can weigh up to 40 kg and measure 90 cm long! In South Asia, this nutritious fruit has been a staple food for millennia; its fibrous, sweet flesh recalls a blend of banana, pineapple, and mango. Some cultures regard it as a 'superfruit' for nourishing populations in difficult conditions.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Fig treeFicus carica
- White MulberryMorus alba
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- Red mulberryMorus rubra
- Rubber plantFicus elastica
- Black mulberryMorus nigra
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.