El mangosteen It is a tropical tree that gives very good shade and that also produces fruits that are edible, with a flavor similar to that of citrus. Its scientific name is garcinia mangostana, and grows in the rainforests of Southeast Asia.
Although, due to its origin, it cannot be grown outside in cold climates, it is a very interesting plant if you live in an area where there is no frost.
Mangosteen characteristics
It is an evergreen tree that grows between the 7 and 25 meters tall, with a crown that can measure between 4 and 6m. Its foliage is very dense, with opposite, large, oval leaves. The fruit has an exocarp (bark or shell) that is purple when ripe; inside is edible meat, the aril, which is white.
Its growth rate is medium-fast, so if you are looking for a plant that gives you shade and fruit, and you live in an area with a mild climate, the mangosteen may be one of your best options 😉.
How do you take care of yourself?
To have a specimen (or several) of this precious tree, the following care must be taken:
- Location: outdoors, in full sun or semi-shade.
- Irrigation: frequent, 3-4 times a week.
- Subscriber: during the warmer months, it is advisable to fertilize with liquid organic fertilizers, such as guano.
- Transplant: whether you want to move to the garden or to a larger pot -which must be done every two years- you have to wait for spring.
- Pruning: It's not necesary. However, it is advisable to cut dry, weak and / or diseased branches.
- Rusticity: it is very sensitive to cold. Temperatures below 4ºC can kill an adult tree.
Have you heard of this tree? What do you think?