Mangosteen
Garcinia mangostana
Mangosteen is a slow-growing tropical evergreen tree with deep purple fruit containing sweet, juicy white segments. It needs constant warmth and humidity, as found in parts of Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
Photo: Ivar Leidus · CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Essential Care Requirements
Light
Partial sun, Full sun
Watering
High
Keep the soil moist all year; it does not tolerate drought.
Soil
Deep, rich, well-drained soil; pH 5.0–6.5.
Temperature and humidity
15–35 °C · High humidity
Feeding
Feed with compost and a balanced fertilizer twice a year.
Pruning and propagation
Propagate by seed, grafting
Little pruning needed.
The fruit is safe to eat.
Top Cultivation Tips
Seedlings may take 8–10 years to fruit.
Give shade when young.
Mulch heavily to keep roots moist.
Protect from cold below 10 °C.
Common problems
Leaf spot
Fungal or bacterial infections that cause brown, black or purple spots on leaves, often with a yellow halo, leading to early leaf drop.
How to treat it →PestScale insects
Immobile, shell-covered insects that cling to stems and leaves, draining sap and weakening trees and houseplants.
How to treat it →
