Chempedak
artocarpus integer
Also known as: ["Cempedak","Japenese Jackfruit","Cempedak Fruit"]
Overview
A tropical fruit tree native to Southeast Asia, known for its sweet, fibrous fruit with a distinctive aroma.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","tropical aesthetic"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Rosales |
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Genus: | Artocarpus |
| Botanical Name: | Artocarpus integer |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in tropical or subtropical regions, or as a large indoor container plant
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"22–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–12"}
- Misting: rarely required unless in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; cactus mix amended with compost works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning annually; major shaping every 2–3 years as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of foliage at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to direct morning sun in cooler months if acclimated.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to direct light to avoid scorching; protect from intense afternoon sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Use a mix of peat, perlite, and sand; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warm, stable conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or air layering; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy stem.
- Cut below node.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand; or water propagation for initial rooting.
Hormone
Rooting hormone powder or gel recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment in new pot takes 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead/damaged growth; shape plant for better light exposure; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; add fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water the root zone directly, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with coarse materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, reduces photosynthesis, and may cause leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a space heater or thermal blanket; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may stagnate due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure adequate water supply.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to gastrointestinal and skin irritation from the latex, unripe fruit, or raw seeds of Artocarpus integer.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested raw or improperly prepared
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience gastrointestinal upset or allergic reactions if they consume unripe fruit, latex, or raw seeds of Artocarpus integer.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested raw or improperly prepared
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe unripe fruit and latex of Artocarpus integer contain proteolytic enzymes and other compounds that can cause irritation and allergic reactions. The seeds are also toxic if not properly cooked.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten raw or improperly prepared
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Chempedak related to Jackfruit?
A: Yes, both belong to the same genus Artocarpus but are distinct species.
Q: How do you know when Chempedak is ripe?
A: The fruit emits a strong sweet aroma and the skin turns slightly yellow.
Q: Can Chempedak be grown in non-tropical climates?
A: It requires warm, humid conditions and is not suitable for temperate climates.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Moraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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