El breadfruit tree or frutipan is a tropical plant that we can find in all the hot and humid regions of the world. Although it can easily exceed 10 meters, specimens of 21m have even been seen, its cultivation in a pot is possible since it tolerates pruning quite wellIf you're interested in growing trees in warm climates, the breadfruit tree is a great option.
Let's meet this curious and beautiful tree, so rare in temperate climates.
Origin and characteristics of the breadfruit tree
Our protagonist It is an evergreen tree native to the Pacific islands that can reach a maximum height of 21m, whose scientific name is Artocarpus altilis. Its trunk often branches from the base, and has a maximum thickness of 2m in diameter. The flowers are grouped in inflorescences, female and male, present in the same specimen. Pollination is cross, but it is not necessary for the fruit to form, which is round and can weigh between 9 and 20 kilos.
Its growth rate is quite fast, and can grow at a rate of one meter per year if conditions are right. It's also important to know that its interior contains a latex that causes itching and irritation upon contact with the skin. Also, if you're interested in learning more about trees from warm climates, you can read an article about the exotic trees in Spain and its adaptation in different environments.
What are their cares?
If you want to have a copy, we recommend that you provide it with the following care:
- Climate: no frost.
- Location: outside, in semi-shade.
- Earth:
- Pot: universal growing substrate mixed with 30% perlite.
- Garden: it must have good drainage and be rich in organic matter.
- Irrigation: frequent. Every 2 days in the hottest season and every 5 days the rest.
- Subscriber: once a month add organic fertilizers, such as guano o manure. You can also check shea tree care for more information on organic fertilizers.
- Pruning: remove dead, diseased, or weak branches and those that have grown too long before growth resumes in spring. This is similar to caring for other trees such as the parota tree. If you would like to know more about other trees in landscapes, please consult the trees most used for the urban landscape in Spain.
- Multiplication: by seeds in spring.
- Harvest: The fruits are ready to be picked when they turn light green and look large, about 15-19 weeks after flowering.
- Rusticity: supports up to 5ºC, being adequate between 38 and 16ºC.
Did you know this tree?
There is a worm that is like its root when they are young. How to remove it?
Hello Sergio.
You can eliminate it with Cypermethrin 10%. It is usually sold in an envelope, the content of which is dissolved in 5 liters of water.
Greetings.