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Tree Name: Jack Fruit Tree

Botanical Name: Artocarpus heterophyllus

The jackfruit tree, scientifically known as Artocarpus heterophyllus, is a large tropical tree belonging to the Moraceae family. Here's an overview of the jackfruit tree:

Appearance: Jackfruit trees are large evergreen trees that can grow up to 20 to 30 meters (65 to 100 feet) in height. They have a dense, spreading canopy with glossy green leaves that are typically oval or elliptical in shape. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that are borne on short branches directly from the trunk and main branches.

Fruit: The jackfruit tree produces the largest tree-borne fruit in the world, known as jackfruit. The fruit can grow to be as large as 80 pounds (36 kilograms) and is characterized by its spiky, greenish-yellow exterior when unripe, which turns yellow or orange-yellow as it ripens. Inside, the fruit contains numerous edible bulbs or "pods" surrounded by fibrous, stringy material.

Cultivation: Jackfruit trees are native to the rainforests of South and Southeast Asia but are now cultivated in tropical regions around the world. They thrive in warm, humid climates with well-drained soil. Jackfruit trees are relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate a range of soil types, though they prefer fertile, loamy soil.

Propagation: Jackfruit trees are typically propagated from seeds, which are extracted from ripe fruits. The seeds should be planted in well-prepared soil and kept moist until germination occurs. Jackfruit trees can also be propagated through grafting or air layering for more controlled and faster propagation.

Uses: The jackfruit tree is primarily cultivated for its fruit, which is consumed fresh or used in a variety of culinary dishes. Ripe jackfruit has a sweet and tropical flavor and is often eaten fresh or used in desserts, smoothies, and ice creams. Unripe jackfruit has a firm texture and is commonly used as a meat substitute in vegetarian and vegan dishes due to its neutral flavor and ability to absorb flavors.

Other Uses: In addition to its fruit, various parts of the jackfruit tree have traditional medicinal uses. The wood of the tree is used in construction and furniture making, while the leaves are sometimes used as fodder for livestock.

Overall, the jackfruit tree is a valuable tropical tree species with multiple uses, primarily prized for its large and versatile fruit.