Garcinia mangostana aka Mangosteen

Garcinia mangostana, or mangosteen, is an evergreen fruit tree. It belongs to the Clusiaceae family. Its native range covers Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo. Most records come from trees grown for their fruit. It may also grow wild on forest hillsides and ridges. Growers raise it in Malaysia, Indonesia, and other tropical lands. Orchards also grow it in Brazil.

The tree grows slowly and forms an upright, pyramidal crown. Garden trees reach about 39–50 feet [12–15.24 metres] tall. Their spread can reach 40 feet [12.19 metres]. Some trees reach 82 feet [25 metres], though cultivated trees stay smaller. The trunk is straight and round in cross section. It can reach about 1.2 feet [0.37 metres] across. The tree keeps its broad leaves through the year. Its lasting foliage gives it value beyond the fruit crop.

Purple-pink flowers appear seasonally, rather than during a fixed month range. The round fruits measure about 1.3–3 inches across. A rind encloses several sections of white, juicy flesh. The flesh tastes sweet and tart and has a soft texture. People eat it raw after removing the rind. They also sometimes eat the seeds after boiling or roasting. Fresh seeds lose their ability to grow within a short time. Sow them soon after the fruit ripens. Trees raised from seed can take 8–12 years to bear fruit.

Mangosteen needs a hot, humid climate and rich soil. Full sun suits it, and it needs plentiful water. It does not cope well with drought or strong winds. Missouri Botanical Garden lists USDA hardiness zones 11–12. It calls for temperatures between 40°F and 100°F. Its water guidance cites more than 150 inches of yearly rainfall. These narrow needs make it hard to grow outside suitable tropical areas. Keeping the tree alive alone does not ensure a fruit crop. Missouri Botanical Garden reports no major insect or disease problems.

Gardeners grow mangosteen chiefly as a fruit tree. Its evergreen crown and showy fruit also add landscape interest. The rind supplies tannins used to make black dye. People use the dense, dark-brown wood for joinery and tools. Traditional medicine uses the rind for gut and skin complaints. Such uses do not establish that these treatments are safe or effective. Useful Tropical Plants and Plants For A Future report no known hazards. That statement does not confirm the safety of every part or preparation.