Breadfruit Tree, Air Layered

The Breadfruit Tree is a fast-growing tropical tree air-layered as a clone of a mature tree, producing a starchy staple fruit that can be roasted, fried, baked, or broiled. The cooked fruit tastes like fresh-baked bread, with a somewhat potato-like quality, and is high in carbohydrates and a good source of protein.

At a glance

• Propagation: Air-layered clone of a mature tree
• Bearing age: Typically 1 to 3 years
• Exposure: Full sun
• Cold hardiness: 50°F
• Soil: Moist, well-drained
• Growth rate: Fast
• Mature size: About 35 ft tall by 20 ft wide
• Spacing: 20 to 25 feet

Best for

• Tropical, frost-free gardens (Hawaii or the Florida Keys)
• Climate-controlled greenhouse growing elsewhere
• Homegrown staple food production
• Edible landscaping
• Fast-growing shade and structure

How to grow

Plant in full sun in moist, well-drained soil, spacing 20 to 25 feet apart. Breadfruit is strictly tropical and limited to regions that never freeze, with a cold hardiness around 50°F, so in the US it can only be grown outdoors in Hawaii or the Florida Keys unless kept in a climate-controlled greenhouse. This air-layered tree typically fruits within 1 to 3 years.

Flavor profile

Cooked breadfruit tastes similar to fresh-baked bread, with a somewhat potato-like quality. It is high in carbohydrates and an excellent source of protein.

About Everglades Farm

Everglades Farm is a Florida nursery growing fruiting trees, edible plants, and rare garden showpieces, shipped directly from the nursery to your door.

Made by Everglades Farm, based in Homestead, Florida.