Kwai Muk Tree 25G

Kwai Muk Tree – Artocarpus hypargyreus (25 Gallon Pot) available in Jupiter, FL.

Rare, exotic and delightfully edible, the Kwai Muk is a standout choice for South Florida gardens. This compact fruit tree is offered here in a 25‑gallon pot, ready to be planted and begin its journey toward producing its uniquely flavoured fruit. Native to southern China (Kwangtung Province, Hainan Island, Hong Kong) and belonging to the Moraceae family in the Magnoliopsida class (dicots) it is surprisingly well suited to South Florida’s warm, humid climate and sandy soils.

The Kwai Muk tree grows moderately, reaching mature heights of about 20‑25 feet in Florida conditions. It features a dense, rounded canopy with glossy dark green leathery leaves and smooth, handsome bark—making it both an ornamental specimen and a productive edible. The fruits are small (comparable to figs) and emerge in late summer to fall, with a tangy‑sweet flavour described as a blend of mango, apricot, fig, guava and strawberry. Because the tree remains manageable in height and offers edible value, it makes an excellent choice for home orchards, food‑forests, or specialty fruit enthusiasts in South Florida.

Key Features:

• Botanical Name: Artocarpus hypargyreus

• Common Name: Kwai Muk

• Family: Moraceae

• Class: Magnoliopsida

• Pot Size: 25 Gallon

• Mature Height: 20‑25 feet (in Florida)

• Mature Spread: Approx. 12‑15 feet (depending on pruning)

• USDA Zones: 9b–11 (well suited to South Florida)

• Growth Habit: Evergreen (or near‑evergreen in mild climates), compact canopy

• Fruit: Round to ovoid, 1‑2 in size, orange to yellow skin, soft pulp with tangy‑sweet flavour

• Can tolerate brief cold‑spells: Mature trees can survive down to ~25 °F when acclimated.

Sunlight Needs:

Grows best in full sun. For optimal growth and fruiting, plant in a location receiving at least 6‑8 hours of direct sunlight daily—South Florida’s sun is ideal for this tree.

Watering Requirements:

Keep soil evenly moist during the first year to help the tree establish its root system. Once established, the Kwai Muk is tolerant of typical South Florida summer heat but performs best when soil remains consistently moist (rather than allowing long dry periods). Good drainage is essential to avoid root stress.

Soil Preferences:

Prefers well‑draining sandy or loamy soil. In South Florida, amend native sand with compost or organic matter for better moisture retention and fertility. Slightly acidic to neutral pH ~6.0‑7.0 is desirable. Avoid heavy clay soils or sites prone to standing water.

Fertilization:

Apply a balanced, slow‑release fruit tree fertilizer in early spring and again in mid‑summer to support flowering and fruit set. Organic options (compost, aged manure) will boost soil health and tree vigor. Since Kwai Muk is rare and speciality, premium fertilisers or “fruit‑tree boosters” may help.

Pest & Disease Tips:

Generally resilient, though as with all tropical fruit trees, monitor for scale, mealybugs or fungal issues in overly wet or shaded spots. Good air circulation, regular inspection and avoidance of overly dense canopy help prevent problems.

Maintenance & Pruning:

Low to moderate maintenance. Prune to maintain a manageable size (especially in home gardens), remove crossing or crowded branches after harvest, and thin canopy to allow light penetration. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Why It Works in South Florida:

• Well‑adapted to the heat, humidity and sandy soils of South Florida. 

• Compact height (~20‑25 feet) makes it manageable for urban and suburban yards.

• Produces unique, delicious fruit seldom seen locally—ideal for edible‑landscape enthusiasts.

• Evergreen (or nearly so) foliage provides year‑round greenery and structure.

• A specimen tree with dual appeal: ornamental & edible.

Jupiter Farms & Nursery