Family: Moraceae

Artocarpus integer, commonly known as chempedak, is a tree species native to Malaysia, Indonesia, and southern Thailand. It belongs to the Moraceae family, which also includes well-known fruit trees like breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis) and jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus). The tree can grow 10–30 meters in height and has a spreading, irregular canopy. Its leaves are elliptical, leathery, and dark green, while its flowers are small and produced in dense, cylindrical inflorescences. The fruit of Artocarpus integer is elongated, yellowish to brown when ripe, and has a strong aroma with a sweet, custard-like flavor. The fruit, seeds, and occasionally the flowers are edible and are widely used in traditional dishes and local markets across its native range.

Artocarpus integer is a culturally and economically important species in Southeast Asia, valued for its unique fruit and culinary versatility. While it has been introduced to other tropical regions, it has not shown significant invasive tendencies. Its ability to self-pollinate enhances its adaptability, though cross-pollination by insects can improve fruit yield and quality.

High Risk Traits:

• Grows and could spread in regions with tropical climates
  
• Broad elevation range
  
• Other Artocarpus species have weedy traits and tendencies
  
• Shade tolerant (potential to establish within intact forests)
  
• Reproduces by seed
  
• Hybridizes with jackfruit
  
• Reported to be self-fertile (although primarily outcrossing)
  
• Seeds dispersed by rhinos, elephants, tapir and deer. in its native range, possibly birds or other frugivorous animals within its introduced range, and through intentional cultivation

Low Risk Traits:

• No reports of invasive or negative impacts where cultivated
  
• Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
  
• Foliage palatable and used as fodder from animals
  
• Fruit palatable to animals and people
  
• Not reported to be toxic
  
• Not reported to spread vegetatively
  
• Reaches maturity from seed after 3-6 years
  
• Relatively large seeds unlikely to be accidentally dispersed