Talk about eye-catching – I fell behind my hiking group since I was so mesmerized by this weird lump. After a bit of research I learned it was a Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus). Native to southern India and Malaysia, this exotic species was thriving along a drainage ditch next to I-275 in St. Petersburg.

Though odd in appearance, the fruit is said to have a sweet banana or pineapple taste. I have yet to try one but now I’m intrigued!