Jackfruit Originally native to the Indian sub-continent, the jackfruit is now widely cultivated throughout the tropical low lands of both hemispheres. The tree bears one of the largest edible fruits known. Acreage and production in Bangladesh The jackfruit ranks third in area under cultivation and second in production among the fruits of Bangladesh. There are 25,110 ha of land under jackfruit having an annual production of 469,500 tons (BBS, 2000-2007). It accounts about 22% of total fruit production in the country. Use and composition Jackfruit is a popular fruit in Bangladesh. The pulp of the ripe fruit is eaten fresh and sometime it is preserved in syrup or dried. The juicy flesh around the seeds has normally a pungent odor and is sweet or acidic. The large seeds are boiled and roasted before use. They are used in many culinary preparations. The pulp of unripe fruits is used as a vegetable. The rind and leaves are fed to livestock. The tree may be used for beautification of the homesteads. The latex is used as sealing material. The yellow heart wood is a valuable timber and also produces a yellow dye.