akee

/euh kee"/, n.

a tropical tree, Blighia sapida, of the soapberry family, cultivated for the edible aril of its seeds. Also, ackee.

[1785-95; allegedly < Kru]

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▪ plant

also spelled  ackee 

 (Blighia sapida), tree of the soapberry family native to West Africa, widely cultivated throughout tropical and subtropical regions for its edible fruit. The tree grows about 9 metres (30 feet) tall and bears pinnate leaves and fragrant white flowers. Brought to the Caribbean area with slaves from Africa, the akee tree was introduced to science by William Bligh (Bligh, William), famous as captain of the ill-fated “Bounty,” hence its botanical name.

      At maturity, the reddish, woody shell of the fist-sized fruits splits open to reveal three segments of white flesh, each with large shiny black seeds. The soft, bland flesh is eaten as a vegetable, though it is toxic, even fatal, if eaten unripe. Akee and salt fish is a popular dish in the Caribbean.

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