Seed Availability

Seeds are now available at our seed store.

Description

A medium to large sized tree, up to 40-60 feet in height. Fruits form in small clusters and grow to 2-4", ripening to an orange-red.

Hardiness

The akee is tropical or subtropical, and able to survive temperatures to the upper 20's.

Growing Environment

It seems to grow a bit better in areas that cool during the winter, rather than intense humid, tropical climates. Grow in full sun, water regularly.

Propagation

Often by seed, and occasionally through cuttings. Seedling trees may bear in 4 years. There are a few identified varieties.

Uses

The ripe arils are boiled, usually in salt water or milk, then fried, and eaten. The fruit is cultivated mainly in Jamaica, though occasionally elsewhere in the Caribbean. Canned akee can occasionally be found in specialty markets in the United States and elsewhere.

Native Range

Native to tropical forests of West Africa, along the Gold Coast and Ivory Coast. The akee has gained its fame in Jamaica where it was imported long ago and has become a key ingredient in many popular dishes there.

Additional Pictures

Related Species

Sapindaceae
	Blighia sapida Akee		Dimocarpus didyma Alupag
	Dimocarpus longana Longan		Litchi chinensis Lychee
	Melicoccus bijugatus Mamoncillo		Nephelium echinulatum Nephelium echinulatum
	Nephelium lappaceum Rambutan		Nephelium maingayi Nude Rambutan
	Nephelium mutabile Pulasan		Nephelium uncinatum Hooked Rambutan
	Nephelium xerospermoides Hairless Rambutan		Paullinia cupana Guarana
	Saponaria detergens Soap Nut		Talisia esculenta Belizian Genip