African Breadnut Live Plants (Treculia Africana)

African Breadfruit, scientifically classified as Treculia Africana, is a tropical evergreen tree native to the diverse continent of Africa and is a common sight in its tropical regions. This impressive tree presents itself with a smooth, dark-gray bark enveloping its fluted trunk and a dense, expansive crown. When the bark is incised, it exudes a white, rust-colored latex. The leaves, which are both enormous and elegantly simple, alternate along the branches. The propagation of African Breadfruit is achieved through either stem cuttings or seeds, contributing to its widespread presence and cultural significance.

The wood sourced from the African Breadfruit tree serves a versatile range of functions, including its use in pulp and paper manufacturing, as fuel and charcoal, and in crafting furniture, intricate carvings, turnery, and inlay woodwork. The fruits produced by the African Breadfruit tree are substantial, featuring a round, dense, and rigid structure. Each fruit houses multiple orange seeds ensconced in spongy flesh. Once prepared, these seeds offer a flavor reminiscent of peanuts, often enjoyed as a delectable dessert. Beyond that, they are ground into a meal, incorporated into savory soups, and utilized to craft an array of baked goods such as bread and paste. The process of seed extraction involves macerating the fruit in water, unveiling their culinary potential.

These seeds stand out for their exceptional protein content, surpassing even soybeans in biological value, making them a valuable dietary source. Moreover, the seeds can be processed to extract edible oil. Beyond its culinary attributes, African Breadfruit plays a significant role in traditional medicine, addressing a variety of conditions, including swellings, leprosy, coughs, while also serving as a febrifuge, laxative, and anthelmintic. In addition, these seeds yield an edible oil.

Referred to colloquially as Ukwa, the official botanical name of this remarkable tree is Treculia Africana. Typically, African Breadfruit trees initiate their flowering and fruit-bearing stage within a relatively short span of 3 to 4 years. In terms of maintenance, they require a moderate level of care and attention. African Breadfruit is a testament to the multifaceted contributions of nature, enriching both culinary and medicinal traditions, while also playing a vital role in various industrial applications throughout the African continent.