The fruit cut into half
Mulleria (Kasaragod): Surprising everyone, a breadfruit tree planted three years ago here bore fruits that resemble jackfruit. The breadfruit tree in the compound of Bellur Nettanige native Udayakumar bore the unique fruits.
Normally, breadfruit does not have seeds or bulbs inside. But the one in Udayakumar’s compound produced fruits with 12 bulbs and seeds inside. However, none of the bulbs was as thick as original jackfruit. Also, the seeds do not have the peel.
Breadfruit rind normally has smooth thorns whereas this one has sharp thorns like jackfruit. Overall it looks like a mini jackfruit. The leaves are wider and thicker than those of breadfruit.
Though the tree bore fruits in the previous year too, the family did not notice it. This time, they found the bulbs and seeds when they plucked one and cut it. They made a curry with the fruit but it tasted different from breadfruit or jackfruit.
Meanwhile, Dr K P Chandran, a scientist at the Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (CPCRI), said that the plant could be a rare variety. He also suggested possibilities of cross-pollination. The experts from Agriculture University are informed of the plant and fruit. They may come up with an answer to the questions, he added.
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