Artocarpus altilis
Artocarpus altilis — the Breadfruit tree — is one of the most historically significant and productive tropical fruit trees in the world. Native to the Pacific Islands and widely cultivated throughout the tropics, including Ecuador, this intermediate to warm-growing tree from the Moraceae family produces enormous, deeply lobed, glossy dark green leaves that make it as ornamentally spectacular as it is agriculturally important. Its large, starchy fruits — which can weigh up to 5 kg — have fed Pacific Island communities for thousands of years and remain a vital food source across the tropics today.
Features
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Foliage: Enormous, deeply lobed leaves in glossy dark green — bold and tropical in appearance, highly ornamental even as a young plant
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Fruit: Large, round to oval starchy fruits with a textured green skin — edible when cooked, with a flavor and texture similar to fresh bread or potato
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Growth habit: Vigorous, fast-growing tropical tree; can be grown in large containers when young
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Family: Moraceae (same family as figs and mulberries)
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Origin: Pacific Islands; widely cultivated throughout the tropics including Ecuador
Care Guide
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Light: Full sun to bright indirect light; thrives in high light conditions
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Temperature: Intermediate to warm, between 16°C and 35°C (61°F – 95°F); sensitive to frost
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Watering: Regular watering during active growth; allow the soil to partially dry between waterings once established
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Humidity: Moderate to high; thrives in humid tropical conditions
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Soil: Rich, well-draining soil with good organic content; tolerates a range of soil types
Artocarpus altilis is a tree with a remarkable story — it famously inspired Captain Bligh’s ill-fated voyage on the Bounty, sent to collect breadfruit plants for the Caribbean. Today, it is celebrated both as a food security crop and as a stunning ornamental tropical tree. Grow it for its spectacular foliage, its fascinating history, and — in the right climate — its extraordinary fruit.
