Flora Hills Notes
Common Names: Jackfruit, Jack Tree, Kathal
Scientific Name: Artocarpus heterophyllus
Origin: India, particularly the Western Ghats and surrounding South Asian tropical forests
The jackfruit tree, Artocarpus heterophyllus, belongs to the Moraceae family, the same family as figs and mulberries. It is believed to have originated in the rainforests of the Western Ghats of India, making it one of the truly native tropical fruit trees closely connected to Kerala’s natural and cultural history. Over centuries, the tree spread across Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, Africa, and tropical America.
Jackfruit is known worldwide for its remarkable fruit size and versatility. Major varieties around the world are generally grouped into firm-fleshed and soft-fleshed types. In Kerala, jackfruit is traditionally categorized into two familiar forms: Varikka (വരിക്ക) and Koozha (കൂഴ).
Varikka produces firm, crisp bulbs with lower latex content and is usually preferred for fresh eating and commercial use.
Koozha bears softer, more fibrous, and sweeter flesh commonly used in traditional preparations and household cooking. Numerous local landraces and region-specific selections also exist across Kerala.
A mature jackfruit tree typically grows 10–25 metres tall with a broad evergreen canopy and strong trunk. The tree bears fruits directly from the trunk and major branches, a feature known as cauliflory. Individual fruits may weigh anywhere between 5–35 kilograms, with exceptional specimens growing even larger.
Jackfruit is highly nutritious and valued as a traditional food source. The ripe fruit contains vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, fibre, and antioxidants. It may support digestion, immunity, and energy levels. Unripe jackfruit is widely used as a vegetable, while the seeds are edible and rich in protein and minerals.
Environmentally, jackfruit trees make an outstanding contribution. Their dense canopy offers shade, carbon storage, soil protection, moisture retention, and habitat for birds, insects, and small wildlife. As a long-lived native tree, jackfruit strengthens biodiversity and contributes significantly to tropical ecological stability.
At Flora Hills, the jackfruit tree stands as more than a fruit-bearing species—it represents heritage, abundance, and memory. From tender young fruits used in traditional cuisine to the sweet fragrance of ripe bulbs, the tree carries a familiar presence deeply woven into Kerala’s landscape and way of life. 🌿