Know Your Species
ą¤ą¤ą¤¹ą¤² Jackfruit
The cultural heritage of our country is not complete without mention of the trees. And one of the top species among such trees is Jackfruit. It’s scientific name is Artocarpus heterophyllus. It is the largest tree-borne fruit, ellipsoidal, length reaching up to 60 cm and weighing up to 18 kg.
The Cultural Significance of Jackfruit
The jackfruit is a sacred tree which is considered as a symbol of prosperity and connectedness. It is associated with eternal life, blessings and religious practices. These photos of mother Jackfruit tree were taken during our visit to the Gundla Brahmeswaram Wildlife Sanctuary or GBM in Nallamala forest, Andhra Pradesh. This tree is being properly looked after by us, which is in the forest complex near to GBM temple, an historically important place. In early times it was planted by the forest officials, now everyone tastes the fruit of this tree. It is also home to various birds and adds to the biodiversity of the area. It provides shade to everyone including the forest guards living there, the pilgrims visiting the temple during Mahashivratri who also enjoys its fruits. We have also planted Jackfruit tree at our home and wish to plant wherever we stay or travel.
Cultivating and caring for Jackfruit trees
Properly planting a jackfruit tree is an important stepĀ in successfully growing a strong and productive tree. It requires a warm, humid climate, well-drained soil and full sunlight. The best time to plant is in late spring or early summer, early in the rainy season. This tree doesĀ not need much maintenance, just little pruning to remove the dead leaves or fruits and protection from diseases. It is an evergreen tree which provides shade in summers. The tree has played a very significant role in the farmer’s life or Indian agriculture for centuries. Farmers can earn millions with its cultivation.
Nutritional Significance of Jackfruit
Jackfruit is considered a superfood because of its potential health benefits. It is sweet and nutritious. It contains Potassium, Fiber, VitaminĀ C, Calcium, Zinc, Folic acid and Protein which helps in regulation and protection against cholesterol, skin diseases, heart diseases and stroke. It can be planted in schools, hostels, home gardens etc. for increasing nutritious inputs to children. The fruit has a special place in vegetarian foods as its curry or biryani resembles somewhat of non-vegetarian tastes though purely vegetarian. In India, varieties of dishes are made with jackfruit including pickles, curries, fruit falvours as ingredient. It’s leaves are used as wrap while steaming idli etc. which tastes unique. It is also the state fruit of Kerala and Tamilnadu.
Exploring the Legacy of Jackfruit: Symbolizing Community, Cinema, and Environmental Enrichment
It is a beautiful thing that a tree can add a lot to our life and the surrounding environment.
Even a film like ‘Kathal’ entered the cinema and the results impressed the audience. It is a community and social fruit. It has great historical, cultural and nutritional significance. The orange tree bark on jackfruit trees are used to dye robes. It is an evergreen tree with shade in summers too. It improves biodiversity and local fauna. The tree is really a Jack of fruits and is rightly called so.
Please share your experiences with Jackfruit!
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