Ackee Tree

Common Names: Ackee, Akee, Akee Apple

Ackee is a stunning tropical evergreen from West Africa that has become the star of Jamaican gardens. It produces unique pear-shaped pods that turn bright red when they are ready to show off. Inside, you will find creamy white flesh that looks and feels just like scrambled eggs when cooked. It is a must-have for any collector looking to grow the national fruit of Jamaica right here in Perth.

Features:

Ideal prune height range: 3-5m (can grow to 10m if left alone)

pH growing conditions: 5.5 to 6.5 (prefers slightly acidic)

Shade or full sun: Shade to grow then more sun (needs heat to fruit well)

Minimum pot year 5: 90L pot

Time to fruit age: 3-4 years from seed

Ackee trees love the heat but need protection from the frost when they are young. They have beautiful, dense green leaves that stay all year round, making them a great shade tree for a sunny spot. While they are tough and can handle dry spells once they are big, they fruit best with a good drink and some balanced fertiliser during the summer.

Interesting Notes:

Safety first with this one! You must wait for the red pods to open naturally on the tree before you pick them. The yellow flesh (aril) is delicious and nutty, but the seeds and unripe fruit are toxic. It is famous for the dish Ackee and Saltfish. The flowers are very fragrant and can even be used to make simple colognes.

Ackee is a conversation starter for any food forest and a beautiful ornamental tree.

Limited stock. Pickup from Parkwood, WA. Delivery to Perth Metro only.

Keywords: Ackee tree, Blighia sapida, Jamaican fruit tree Perth, tropical fruit tree, rare edible plants