Ackee Apple
Blighia sapida
Also known as
Akee, Akee-Apple
Blighia sapida seso vegetal by Michael Hermann (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Full Sun
Moderate care
Moderate watering
Tender
13b
USDA zone
18°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
|---|---|---|
30m | Max | 6m |
3m | Min | 3m |
Flowering
spring
summer
autumn
winter
This plant has a mild fragrance
Ackee Apple Overview
The Ackee is an evergreen tree, with egg-shaped leathery leaflets and fragrant flowers & pear-shaped fruit that are enjoyed by many despite its toxic properties. Only the pulp (aril) of fully formed ackee should be consumed, after the fruit has burst open on its branch & the aril has been exposed to the sun. This fruit is so enjoyed in places such as Jamaica, that chose it as their national fruit. Apart from being enjoyed in Caribbean cuisine, it also has medicinal, ornamental & poisonous applications.
Common problems with Ackee Apple
No serious pests or diseases known except for the Verticillium wilt disease.
How to harvest Ackee Apple
Traditionally twice a year the ackee fruit is harvested. The ackee must be allowed to open fully or at least partly before it is detached from the tree & the arils removed and cleaned in preparation for cooking.
How to propagate Ackee Apple
Seed
Ackee may be propagated by seed, however, the seeds are short-lived and should be planted within a few days after extraction from the fruit. Germination time - 2-3 months.
Cuttings
Stem cuttings dipped in rooting hormone should grow under mist.
Special features of Ackee Apple
Attracts useful insects
Attracts insects such as bees.
Repels harmful insects
The spreading of ashes obtained from calcined capsules is a repellent for some insect pest.
Other uses of Ackee Apple
Culinary. Medicine. Ornamental. Poison. Cologne
culinary
Although from Northern Africa, it became popular in Carribean cuisine.
medicinal
ornamental
Pretty evergreen tree.
poison
The ash can be used as insect repellent