I'd try it first and if you like it then consider planting it.
But please be aware that unless you live in the keys your pushing zones trying to grow it.
Some protection might be required.
I'm more of an eating fruit out of hand type of person so I'm not growing it.
If self-sufficiency is a goal try:
Jackfruit (for the seeds at the very least),
Katuk
Cassava
Pigeon Peas
Starfruit
Might need to find some more plant protein sources unless you can have chickens.
Oh wow, I'm curious why starfruit makes the list for self-sufficiency. Is it that nutritious? I heard it's actually a bit dangerous to eat too much of it, especially for those with kidney issues, because of the neurotoxin found in the fruit.
Sure, good question.
In a situation where self-sufficiency is a goal, the need for some type of fruit for basic vitamins and water is pretty essential.
One could argue for different juicy fruits.
In my experience, one starfruit tree produces enough fruit to feed a few families and it crops multiple times a year. I have yet to see another fruit tree that can compare. (sure, I would prefer a mango or Annona but if you're trying to have fresh fruit year around easily, starfruit is king)
Concerning oxalic acid as far as I'm aware, as long as your eating ripe fruit and cutting the green edges away one should be okay.
If you have kidney issues, however, I do agree, it may not be for you. (the same thing goes for a lot of leafy greens though)
First time hearing the neurotoxin effects, I'll have to look into it more. thanks for the info
Ideally, we shouldn't limit ourselves to one fruit but my suggestions were based on if we could only have a limited selection. Otherwise, I'd plant everything
Many other fruits have harmful compounds, annonas, mangos just to mention a few
As always moderation is best.