One of the most famous tropical fruits. The mangosteen is a Southeast Asian native and bears fruit at the same time as durian. The thick but soft woody shell encloses several segments of the most exquisite juicy white flash, sweet yet slightly acidic.
Origin and Distribution
The place of origin of the mangosteen is unknown but is believed to be the Sunda Islands and the Moluccas; still, there are wild trees in the forests of Malaysia.
Uses of Mangosteen
Mangosteens are usually eaten fresh as dessert. To select the best fruits, choose those with the highest number of stigma lobes at the apex, for these have the highest number of fleshy sements and accordingly the fewest seeds. The numbers always correspond.
Quality Criteria
In dry, warm, closed storage, mangosteens can be kept for 20 to 25 days. Ripe mangosteens keep well for 3 to 4 weeks in storage at 40'C to 55'C.
Harvesting Period
In Malaysia, the fruits usually ripens from May to July. It usually corresponds to the durian season.
Price per kg is between RM5 to RM6
Availability of fruits
Seasonal fruit, usually between May and July.
