Artocarpus hirsutus Lam
Family: Moraceae
Artocarpus hirsutus, commonly known as wild jack , Anjili ,endemic to south India, is a tropical evergreen tree species that is native to India, primarily in Kerala, but also in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, where it grows in moist, deciduous to partially evergreen woodlands Its flowers are unisexual, in axillary inflorescences and its fruits are syncarps and very sweet, changing to an orange hue when ripe. It’s simple, alternate leaves will ooze latex if broken. It is harvested for its wood.
It is prized for its durable timber which is comparable in quality with teak. The timber was used extensively in the construction of ceilings, door frames and furniture.
The ripe fruit of A. hirsutus is eaten after removing the spiny outer skin. The structure of the fruit is similar to that of the much larger jackfruit. The seeds are also edible, usually fried as a snack.
