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.
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.