What Is Artocarpus heterophyllus?
Artocarpus heterophyllus, commonly known as Jackfruit, is one of the most remarkable trees on Earth. It originates from the tropical rainforests of the Western Ghats of southern India. Its native range extends across Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and the Indonesian archipelago. Furthermore, it has been cultivated in Southeast Asia for over 3,000 to 6,000 years.
This tree holds a record that no other tree in the world can match. It produces the largest fruit ever grown on a tree, with individual fruits reaching up to 55 kg (120 lbs) in weight. Consequently, botanists, horticulturists, and rare plant collectors worldwide regard it as a crown jewel of tropical cultivation. Additionally, the Jackfruit is the national fruit of Bangladesh, showing just how deeply rooted it is in Asian culture.
Moreover, Artocarpus heterophyllus is not only impressive in size. Its fruits, leaves, bark, and seeds all carry nutritional and medicinal value. Primarily grown as a food tree in tropical homegardens, it also serves as a shade tree, a timber source, and an ornamental specimen. In Indonesia, this tree is an important part of traditional agroforestry systems.
Induare Agro offers fresh, export-quality seeds of this iconic species. We source seeds carefully from certified organic trees. Each seed is prepared and packaged to the highest standard for international collectors and growers.
Aesthetic Features Artocarpus heterophyllus
Leaf Structure
Artocarpus heterophyllus grows as a large, evergreen tree. It can reach heights of 10 to 25 metres in tropical conditions. The trunk is straight and sturdy, with a dense, dome-shaped canopy. Furthermore, the bark is reddish-brown and smooth, releasing a sticky white latex — a milky sap — when cut.
The leaves are alternate and arranged in a spiral pattern around each stem. They are thick, leathery, and glossy, measuring 7 to 25 cm in length. Additionally, the upper surface is dark green, while the underside is paler. Young trees often display irregularly lobed leaf edges, which smooth out as the tree matures. The leaves are pinnately veined — meaning the veins run out from a central midrib, like a feather.
Flower and Fruit
Artocarpus is a cauliflorous tree — this means it produces flowers and fruits directly on the trunk and large branches, not at the tips of new shoots. This trait gives it a striking, almost prehistoric appearance. Male and female flowers grow on the same tree but in different positions. Male flowers appear on smaller branches among the leaves. Female flowers grow on short, stout shoots from the trunk.
The Jackfruit itself is a multiple fruit — a structure made up of hundreds of individual flowers that have fused together into one enormous mass. A single fruit can grow to 90 cm long and 50 cm wide. The outer skin is rough and covered with blunt, cone-shaped spines — called tubercles. Inside, sweet yellow or orange fruit pods — called arils — surround each large seed. The ripe fruit releases a pleasant aroma similar to pineapple and banana. Additionally, a mature tree can produce up to 200 fruits per year.
Tree Habit and Lifespan
Artocarpus heterophyllus is a long-lived, evergreen tree. It does not go through a true dormancy cycle like trees in temperate climates. Primarily, it grows continuously in warm, humid conditions year-round. However, it may slow its growth slightly during dry seasons.
Furthermore, a healthy Jackfruit tree can live for 50 to 100 years. It reaches peak production between 5 and 30 years of age. Consequently, collectors and growers who invest in this species today are building a living legacy for decades to come.
Global Seed Delivery & Phytosanitary Certification
Packaging and Shipping
Induare Agro ships Artocarpus heterophyllus seeds worldwide using Global Express courier services. We understand that fresh seeds are time-sensitive. Jackfruit seeds lose viability quickly — they must reach the buyer within weeks of harvest. Consequently, we use professional, moisture-controlled packaging to protect every seed during transit.
Moreover, all seed shipments include a valid Phytosanitary Certificate issued by Indonesia’s official plant health authority. This certificate confirms that each seed has passed strict health and pest inspections. Additionally, it meets the import regulations of most countries worldwide. Furthermore, Induare Agro handles all export documentation on behalf of the buyer.
Buyer Peace of Mind
Induare Agro is committed to safe, legal, and transparent international trade. We follow all CITES and phytosanitary regulations carefully. Primarily, our goal is to make the buying experience smooth and worry-free for every collector around the world.
Furthermore, every order from Induare Agro comes with complete shipping tracking. You will always know where your seeds are. Additionally, our team is available to support buyers with customs queries and import documentation. Consequently, buyers in Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific can shop with full confidence.
How to Grow Artocarpus heterophyllus
Step 1 — Prepare the Seeds Rinse fresh seeds under clean water to remove all pulp residue. Soak the cleaned seeds in warm water for 24 hours before planting.
Step 2 — Choose the Right Soil Fill a deep pot with a mix of 50% potting soil, 30% compost, and 20% sand or perlite. This mixture drains well and prevents root rot.
Step 3 — Plant the Seed Push the seed about 2.5 cm (1 inch) deep into the moist soil. Place the flat side of the seed facing downward.
Step 4 — Provide Warmth and Light Keep the pot in a warm spot between 24°C and 29°C (75–85°F). Place it in bright, indirect sunlight to avoid scorching young shoots.
Step 5 — Water Carefully Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged. Use a gentle spray or watering can to avoid disturbing the seed.
Step 6 — Wait for Germination Sprouts typically appear within 2 to 4 weeks. Maintain steady warmth and moisture throughout this period.
Step 7 — Transplant at the Right Time Move the seedling to a larger pot or a sunny garden bed once it reaches 30 to 45 cm tall. Avoid disturbing the taproot — it is delicate.
Step 8 — Ongoing Care Fertilise every 6 to 8 weeks with a balanced fertiliser. Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods.
