Botanical Description
Artocarpus scortechinii, locally called ‘terap hitam’, this species shares close ties with well-known species like jackfruit and breadfruit.
Historical / Cultural Significance
The fruit has been a food source for local communities. It is consumed in various forms—fresh, dried, or processed into dishes. Its flavor and texture are celebrated in regional cuisines, especially in Indonesia and Malaysia. Parts of the plant, including the leaves, bark, and fruit, have been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, showcasing its value beyond nutritional content. The fruit of A. scortechinii is valued for its taste and nutritional benefits. It is a source of vitamins and minerals, making it a staple food in local diets.
Folklore / Etymology
While not much folklore is specifically tied to the fruit itself, the tree is often associated with healing and nourishment. In rural communities, the cultivation of fruit trees like Artocarpus scortechinii is often intertwined with agricultural rituals and offerings to the earth spirits, hoping for a bountiful harvest. Fruit trees are respected as important providers of sustenance, and they may be part of harvest festivals or local celebrations.
Artos: “bread”
Karpos: meaning “fruit”
scortechinii: This is the species epithet, named in honor of Benedetto Scortechini (1845–1886), an Italian-born botanist.