Breadnut
Artocarpus camansifam. Moraceae
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Pl. B306 — Artocarpus camansi
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IOverview
Overview
Breadnut, scientifically known as Artocarpus camansi, is a tall tree native to the Bismarck Archipelago, Maluku, and New Guinea. Thriving in full sun and moist conditions, it can grow up to 15 meters tall and is hardy in zones 10-12. This tree is valued for its edible fruit and seeds, making it a significant food source in its native range. The distinctive feature of the breadnut is its large, round fruits that resemble bread loaves, hence its common name. In cultivation, breadnut can be propagated through seeds and is useful for various purposes, including fire starting, pest control, textile production, mulching, oil extraction, plant support, erosion control, and lumber. Introduced to the Philippines, it has become an important crop in some regions. Breadnut thrives in soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay), and requires consistent moisture for optimal growth.
Quick answers
What is Breadnut?
Breadnut, scientifically known as Artocarpus camansi, is a tall tree native to the Bismarck Archipelago, Maluku, and New Guinea. Thriving in full sun and moist conditions, it can grow up to 15 meters tall and is hardy in zones 10-12.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Breadnut thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 10-12, making it suitable for tropical and subtropical climates. The tree can grow up to 15 meters tall and produces edible fruit and seeds. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
15.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Breadnut for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, sunny spot and basic care for your Breadnut tree.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Breadnut sapling or seeds, a large pot if container gardening, and some compost.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the weather is warm and stable.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light (sandy), medium, or heavy clay. Ensure containers are at least 1 meter wide and deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young saplings carefully to avoid damaging roots. For seeds, sow them in moist, well-draining soil.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Place in a sunny spot and protect from strong winds.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly to maintain moisture levels. Fertilize with compost every few months during growing season.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune young trees to shape them and remove any dead or diseased branches. Harvest fruit when it turns yellow.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy shade, not providing enough support for the tree as it grows.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FruitSeed
Edible uses: Oil
Other uses:Fire starterPest controltextilesMulchoilPlant supportErosion controlLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
3 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 1 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 3 native· 1 introduced
Asia1 region
introduced (1)Philippines
Broader regions
native:Bismarck Archipelago, Maluku, New Guinea
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Moraceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Moraceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
Native to
XII
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