Jackfruit 'Cheena' (Artocarpus heterophyllus x Artocarpus integer)
Unique Blend of Jackfruit and Chempedak
Common Names: Cheena, Cheena Jackfruit, Chempedak-Jackfruit Hybrid
Family: Moraceae
Origin: Southeast Asia
Cheena Jackfruit is a hybrid fruit tree that combines the best traits of two tropical favorites: Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) and Chempedak (Artocarpus integer). This unique cross produces medium to large fruits with a sweet, fragrant aroma and soft, tender flesh.
The texture of Cheena’s fruit is more delicate and easier to eat compared to traditional Jackfruit, and the flavor is often described as a blend of tropical fruits like banana, mango, and pineapple. Known for its high productivity and manageable tree size, Cheena is an excellent addition to any tropical or subtropical garden, offering both ornamental beauty and delicious fruit.
Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value
Fruits: The Cheena hybrid produces medium-sized fruits with a greenish-yellow exterior. The flesh is sweet, aromatic, and softer than that of traditional Jackfruit, making it easier to handle and eat. The fruits typically weigh 10-15 pounds, making them more manageable compared to larger Jackfruit varieties.
Foliage: The tree has large, glossy, green leaves that provide an attractive, tropical appearance.
Growth Habit: Cheena grows as a medium-sized tree, typically reaching 20-30 feet tall, making it a more compact and easier-to-manage option compared to standard jackfruit trees.
Culinary and Nutritional Value
Cheena is prized for its sweet flesh that can be enjoyed fresh or used in both savory and sweet dishes. The fruit is perfect for tropical salads, desserts, and smoothies. Its rich flavor profile, often compared to a combination of banana, pineapple, and mango, makes it ideal for fresh eating. Like most Jackfruit, Cheena is also a popular ingredient in vegetarian and vegan dishes, often used as a meat substitute due to its tender texture.
Nutritionally, Cheena is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A and C, which boost immune function and promote healthy skin. The fruit is also rich in dietary fiber, aiding digestion, and contains antioxidants that help reduce inflammation.
Quick Care Guide
| Plant Type | Evergreen Fruit Tree |
| Harvest Season | Late Spring to Fall |
| Mature Size | 20-30 feet tall, 15-20 feet wide |
| Soil & Moisture | Well-draining, fertile soil; moderate moisture |
| Light Requirements | Full Sun |
| Growth Rate | Moderate to Fast |
| Self-fertile | Yes |
| Zone Hardiness | Outdoors 9-11 depending on variety; Patio/Greenhouse 4+ |
| Propagation | Grafted and capable of producing fruit now |
Growing Guide for Cheena Jackfruit
Climate and Soil Requirements
- Climate: Cheena thrives in tropical and subtropical climates, ideal for USDA zones 9-11. It prefers warm temperatures and high humidity, and the tree does not tolerate frost. In cooler regions, Cheena can be grown in large containers and moved indoors during the winter.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0-7.0). Cheena tolerates sandy or loamy soils but requires good drainage to prevent root rot.
Planting
- Location: Choose a sunny location with good air circulation. Cheena requires full sun to grow and produce fruit.
- Soil Preparation: Loosen the soil and mix in organic compost or aged manure to improve fertility and drainage.
- Planting Time: Plant in spring or early summer when the soil has warmed.
- Spacing: Space trees 15-20 feet apart to accommodate their spreading canopy.
Watering
- Moderate to High Moisture: Water regularly during the first year to establish the tree. Cheena prefers consistently moist soil but should not be waterlogged. Regular watering is especially important during flowering and fruiting.
Sunlight and Fertilizing
- Full Sun: Cheena requires full sun for healthy growth and optimal fruit production. Ensure the tree receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer to promote healthy growth and fruiting. Organic compost or well-rotted manure can also improve soil fertility.
Pruning and Maintenance
- Moderate Maintenance: Prune lightly to shape the tree and remove dead or damaged branches. Regular pruning helps control the size of the tree and improves air circulation, which promotes fruit production.
- Container Growing: Cheena can be grown in large containers, making it suitable for patios or small spaces. Use a well-draining potting mix, and ensure the container has proper drainage.
Pest and Disease Management
- Common Pests: Cheena may attract pests such as aphids, scale, or fruit flies. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to manage infestations.
- Diseases: The tree is resistant to many diseases but may suffer from root rot in poorly draining soil. Ensure good drainage to prevent fungal issues.
Harvesting Cheena Jackfruit
When to Harvest:
- Cheena fruits are typically ready for harvest from late spring through fall when the skin turns greenish-yellow and emits a sweet, fruity aroma. The fruit will give slightly when pressed and should be harvested when fully mature.
How to Use:
- The tender, sweet flesh of Cheena can be eaten fresh, blended into smoothies, or used in tropical fruit salads. The flesh also works well in cooked dishes, and the seeds can be boiled or roasted as a protein-rich snack.
Health Benefits
Cheena is rich in vitamins A and C, both of which support immune function, promote healthy skin, and improve vision. The fruit is also high in fiber, which aids digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Additionally, the antioxidants in Cheena help reduce inflammation and support overall health.
Plant Type:
Tropical Evergreen Fruit Tree
Harvest Season:
Spring, Summer
Soil & Moisture:
Moist, rich, well-draining soil. Likes humid, tropical conditions and are very sensitive to drought and frost
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Self-Fertile:
Yes
Growth Rate:
Medium
Zone Hardiness:
Outdoors 9-11 with frost protection; Patio/Greenhouse 4+
Propagation:
Our Jackfruit is grown from seed and graft and are capable of production with 3-4 years.
