Utu fruit (Parartocarpus venenosa)

Product description

The utu fruit is a rare fruit from the rainforests of Southeast Asia. Its irregular shape and spiky, greenish-yellow skin are reminiscent of a jackfruit. However, at 10 cm, the utu fruit is much smaller and has orange flesh with a sweet and sour taste. The seeds are also edible and are roasted or steamed like chestnuts by the local population.

The species grows to a height of 35 metres in the wild and has shiny leaves measuring 20 cm. When damaged, it can release a white milky sap that is poisonous and protects the tree from herbivores. In Asia, this sap has traditionally been used for poison arrows. In Europe, the species can be kept as a houseplant, but in southern Europe it can be kept outdoors for much of the year. Provide a large pot with well-drained soil and a light location without direct sunlight.

Sowing description: The germinated seed can be planted directly in well-drained soil. Keep the soil constantly slightly moist. A temperature of 25-30°C is optimal for initial development.