Jackfruit differs in size, shape and quality. It may be classified into 2 groups:
(i) soft fleshed(koozha) and (ii) firm fleshed(varikka). The firm fleshed type is highly tasty, sweet and crisp. The 2 groups are further classified depending on the taste, size of fruit, odour of flesh, nature, shape and diversity of prickles on the rind.
2 distinct types recommended for Kerala are:
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Muttom varikka ( firm fleshed and sweet scented variety)
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Singapore or Srilanka jack: Introduced variety from Srilanka. It bears fruits in 3yrs after planting and is extremely precocious in habit. The fruits are more or less the same size as the common jackfruit. A tree may yield as many as 250 fruits.
- Sindoor- highly sweet variety with attractive sunset orange coloured flakes. Bear medium sized (11-12 kg) twice a year.