Jackfruit Maturing... Slowly...

This is how this jackfruit tree (Artocarpus heterophyllus) looks today, as compared to a couple months ago. The fruits will grow much larger and it may take up to 8 months for them to mature. In Miami, these ripen end Summer, beginning Fall. When ripened, they emit a strong odor that may not be agreeable to those who are unaccustomed, but the same odor will make connoisseurs salivate. The seeds are edible simply by boiling them. They have the same laxative power as the feared western beans so if you do eat them, take it easy!