Blighia sapida (Akee)

Blighia sapida (Ackee) is an evergreen tree native to tropical West Africa and now widely cultivated in the Caribbean, especially Jamaica, where it is the national fruit. It typically grows 30-40 feet tall with a rounded crown of glossy, pinnate leaves. The tree bears distinctive pear-shaped pods that split open at maturity to reveal bright red or yellow arils surrounding shiny black seeds. Only the creamy white arils are edible when fully ripe, and they form the basis of Jamaica's famous dish, ackee and saltfish. The unripe fruit is toxic, making ripeness and careful preparation essential.

Blighia sapida thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, with moderate watering once established. It flowers in warm months, and fruits ripen from late summer into winter in many tropical climates. Hardy only to USDA Zone 11, it cannot tolerate frost and should be protected or container-grown in cooler regions. Gardeners value it both as an ornamental shade tree with unusual fruit display and as a productive edible species where climate allows. With proper care, it rewards growers with a striking visual presence and one of the Caribbean's most iconic fruits..

See Articles about Akee:

What is Akee?

Akee Tree.

Watch the video: How to cook perfect Akee?