Cambodian Honey Jack Live Plants

Cambodian Honey Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus)

(A Tropical Marvel of Taste and Nutrition)

Scientific Classification

• Botanical Name: Artocarpus heterophyllus
• Family: Moraceae (Mulberry family)
• Native Region: Originates from the tropical forests of Southern India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

Common Names

• English: Cambodian Jack, Cambodian Honey Jack, Jackfruit, Jack tree
• Malayalam: Chakka
• Tamil: Palaa
• Hindi: Kathal
• Thai: Khanun
• Filipino: Langka
• Indonesian: Nangka
• Portuguese (Brazil): Jaca

Fruit Characteristics

1. Appearance:
   The Cambodian Honey Jackfruit boasts an impressive size, weighing between 8-12 kg. The fruit has orangish-red arils, enclosed in a rough, greenish-yellow spiny rind.

2. Pulp:
   The arils are firm, aromatic, and exceptionally sweet, making this variety ideal as a snack. When the fruit ripens, its sweetness intensifies due to the conversion of carbohydrates into sugars.

3. Seeds:
   The seeds are rich in protein and can be boiled or roasted as a nutritious snack or added to curries.

Culinary Taste and Uses

Taste Profile:

The Cambodian Honey Jackfruit has a sweet, tropical flavor with a hint of honey and a firm texture. It is prized for its aromatic appeal and natural sweetness.

Culinary Uses:

1. Ripe Fruit:
   • Enjoyed raw as a table snack.
   • Blended into smoothies, ice creams, and desserts for its unique flavor.
2. Young Fruit:
   • The tender, green pulp is cooked as a vegetable, often in curries or stir-fries.
3. Seeds:
   • Boiled or roasted for a nutty flavor.
   • Ground into flour for baking or thickening soups.

Nutritional Values and Health Benefits

Nutritional Content (Per 100g of Edible Portion):

• Calories: ~95
• Carbohydrates: ~23g
• Dietary Fiber: ~2.5g
• Proteins: ~1.7g
• Fats: ~0.3g
• Vitamins:
  • Vitamin A: Promotes eye health.
  • Vitamin C: Boosts immunity and supports skin health.
• Minerals:
  • Potassium: Regulates blood pressure.
  • Magnesium: Supports muscle and nerve function.
  • Iron: Prevents anemia.

Health Benefits:

1. Boosts Immunity: Rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants.
2. Energy Source: High carbohydrate content provides natural energy.
3. Digestive Health: Dietary fiber aids in digestion and prevents constipation.
4. Heart Health: Potassium helps lower blood pressure.
5. Bone Health: Magnesium and calcium strengthen bones.
6. Protein-Rich Seeds: Seeds contribute to muscle repair and overall nutrition.

Cultivation and Growth

Plant Characteristics:

• Type: Fast-growing evergreen tree.
• Height: Can grow up to 25 meters, though typically smaller in cultivation.
• Crown: Spreading and irregular, providing ample shade.

Growth Requirements:

1. Climate: Prefers tropical climates with warm temperatures and high humidity.
2. Soil: Thrives in well-drained sandy or loamy soil, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
3. Watering: Requires consistent watering, especially during dry spells, but is drought-tolerant once established.
4. Sunlight: Grows best in full sunlight.
5. Fertilization: Enrich soil with organic compost and potassium-based fertilizers.

Maintenance:

• Low-maintenance tree requiring periodic pruning to manage size and improve air circulation.
• Keep an eye out for pests like fruit flies and aphids. Use organic pest control methods when needed.

Bloom Time and Fruiting:

The Cambodian Honey Jackfruit tree begins fruiting in 3–4 years under optimal conditions.

Preservation and Storage

1. Fresh Fruit: Best consumed within a few days of ripening. Store in a cool, dry place or refrigerate.
2. Freezing: Arils can be frozen for up to 6 months in airtight containers.
3. Processed Forms: Use for jams, dried fruit, or preserved in sugar syrups for extended shelf life.

Cultural and Traditional Significance

1. Symbol of Prosperity: In many cultures, jackfruit trees symbolize abundance and sustainability.
2. Traditional Medicine:
   • Pulp is used to treat digestive issues.
   • Seeds are believed to enhance immunity in traditional practices.
3. Culinary Staple:
   • A vital ingredient in Southeast Asian cuisines, reflecting cultural diversity.

Environmental Benefits

1. Carbon Absorption: As a large evergreen tree, it absorbs substantial amounts of CO₂.
2. Biodiversity: Provides habitat and food for birds, insects, and small mammals.
3. Soil Improvement: Organic matter from fallen leaves enriches soil fertility.

How Cambodian Honey Jackfruit Enhances Your Life

1. Delicious and Nutritious: Adds a unique tropical flavor to your diet with numerous health benefits.
2. Gardener’s Pride: A fast-growing, low-maintenance tree that enhances the beauty of any tropical garden.
3. Sustainable Living: By planting this tree, you contribute to environmental conservation and enjoy year-round benefits from its shade and fruit.
4. Cultural Connection: Embrace the rich traditions of Southeast Asia with every bite.

Conclusion

The Cambodian Honey Jackfruit is more than just a fruit; it’s a culinary delight, a nutritional powerhouse, and a symbol of tropical abundance. Its rich flavor, coupled with its health benefits and environmental value, makes it a must-have addition to gardens and kitchens alike. Add this exotic variety to your life and savor the sweetness of nature.