The Thai All-Season Hybrid Grafted Jackfruit is a specialized cultivar that has become immensely popular in West Bengal and Bangladesh. It is often referred to locally as the "Baromasi Kathal" because of its ability to produce fruit throughout the year, regardless of the traditional summer season.
1. Growth Habit and Structure
Grafted Advantage: Unlike traditional jackfruit trees grown from seeds (which can take 7–10 years to fruit), this variety is grafted. This means a branch from a high-quality mother tree is fused onto a hardy rootstock, allowing the plant to produce fruit in just 1.5 to 2 years.
Dwarf / Semi-Dwarf Nature: It is a relatively compact tree compared to the giants found in rural villages. It can be easily maintained at a height of 8–12 feet with regular pruning, making it ideal for home gardens and even large rooftop terrace gardens.
Foliage: The leaves are typically broader, darker green, and glossier than local varieties, which helps the tree photosynthesize efficiently to produce multiple crops a year.
2. Fruiting Characteristics
Year-Round Production: The tree doesn't follow a strict seasonal clock. It can have flowers, small raw fruits (Enchor), and ripe fruits (Kathal) on the same tree at the same time.
Fruiting Style: It is a prolific bearer. Fruits often grow in clusters not just on the main trunk, but even on lower branches close to the ground.
Fruit Size: The fruits are medium-sized and "family-friendly," typically weighing between 5kg and 12kg. This is much more practical for urban consumption than the massive 30kg wild varieties.
3. Taste and Pulp Quality
The "Koya" (Carpels): The internal bulbs are usually a deep yellow or golden-saffron color.
Texture: The pulp is notably firm and crunchy (often called the "crisp" variety). It does not turn mushy or stringy easily.
Flavor: It has a very high sugar content with a "honey-sweet" taste.
Less Latex: One of its best features is that it produces significantly less sticky white sap (gum) than local varieties, making it much easier to cut and clean.
4. Suitability for West Bengal
Climate: It thrives in the hot and humid climate of West Bengal.
Dual Purpose:
As "Enchor": Because it is available year-round, it is the perfect source for "Gach-Patha" (jackfruit curry) during the winter months when traditional jackfruit is unavailable.
As "Kathal": As a dessert fruit, its crunchiness and sweetness make it a premium choice.
