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The mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) is a tropical evergreen tree, believed to have originated in the Sunda Islands and the Moluccas. The tree grows from 7 to 25 meters tall. The edible fruits are deep reddish purple when ripe. The mangosteen fruit is known as the "queen of fruits," while the durian (Durio spp.) is known as the "king of fruits."

The outer shell of the fruit is rather hard, typically 4-6 cm in diameter, resembling a spherical, black cartoon bomb. Cutting through the shell, one finds a very pale, fleshy fruit 3-5 cm in diameter. Depending on the size and ripeness, there may or may not be pits in the segments of the fruit.

The taste may be compared to an underripe strawberry with hints of sweet orange. Mangosteen is rarely sold in Western countries other than in some Asian groceries. The red flesh inside stains, and is extremely difficult to remove.

To open a mangosteen, the shell is usually broken apart, not cut. Holding the fruit in both hands, press it gently (thumbs on one side, the other fingers on the other) till the shell cracks. It is then very easy to pull the halves apart along the crack, and remove the fruit without staining.

Flesh of the mangosteen

Mangosteen

External links

• Fruits of Warm Climates: Mangosteen
• Know and Enjoy Tropical Fruit: Durian & Mangosteens
• Garcinia mangostana (Clusiaceae)