Appearance & recognition
Jackfruit is a substantial Moraceae tree with large compound fruits borne on trunks and branches. Each fruit contains many fleshy portions surrounding seeds. Mature leaves are usually entire, while younger plants may show different leaf shapes. The tree is widely cultivated in tropical landscapes; a planted tree in Borneo should not automatically be labelled an endemic forest species.
Sources & references · 1
National Parks Board Singapore · Artocarpus heterophyllus — Flora & Fauna WebEdible parts, flavour & texture
Ripeness changes its culinary role. Young fruit is cooked as a savoury vegetable with a fibrous texture, while ripe yellow flesh is sweet and aromatic. Seeds can be boiled or roasted. These are distinct plant parts and preparations, not a blanket statement that every part is edible raw. Cempedak offers a smaller, more strongly scented fruit from the same family.
