Over 200 varieties of breadfruit or ‘ulu (as it is known in the islands) grow around the world, primarily in tropical environments like Hawai’i. It has been a staple food for the inhabitants of the Pacific Islands for over 3,000 years. The Ma’alfaa breadfruit is one of those varieties.

Originally hailing from Samoa and Tonga, Ma’afala Breadfruit is smaller and less dense than the Hawai’ian variety. But it is a fast-growing, compact tree that produces fruit as early as 2½ to 3 years after planting.

The seedless flesh of the Ma’afala Breadfruit is pale yellow in color. Its softer texture makes it the perfect choice for recipes like blended dishes, mashes, and patties. It is also an excellent source of fiber, B vitamins, and minerals. Not only is Ma’afala Breadfruit gluten-free, it contains a higher percentage of protein than most other varieties.

The hard work of organizations like the Breadfruit Institute and Global Breadfruit have made the Ma’afala Breadfruit the number-two, most common variety in Hawai’i.

Ma’afala Breadfruit Growing Tips*

• Plant in partial shade at the beginning of the rainy season.
• Place in a hole that is as deep as the tree’s pot and two times as wide. Fill the hole up to the level of the pot.
• Add mulch around the tree 6 inches from the base.
• Thoroughly water the soil and mulch ring every day until the tree is established.
• Fertilize at the beginning and end of the fruiting season with a slow-release fertilizer.
• Prune and shape the tree as it grows.
• Be careful using herbicides as they can damage a young tree’s trunk and surface roots.

*These Growing Tips are general in nature. Environments and conditions vary. For specific advice on your growing environment, talk to one of our specialists at a Ko’olau Farmers near you.

 Fruit Trees, Trees