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Description
Durio, commonly known as the “King of Fruits,” is a tropical fruit tree that belongs to the Malvaceae family. This fruit has a unique taste and strong odor that is loved by some and disliked by others. Durio is native to Southeast Asia, and it is widely cultivated in countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines.The Durio fruit is large and round, with a spiky exterior. Its flesh is creamy and custard-like, and it has a sweet and slightly savory flavor. The fruit can weigh up to 7 pounds and can grow up to a foot in length. Durio trees can reach up to 130 feet in height and have large, glossy leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Durio |
Appearance
The Durio fruit is large and round, with a spiky exterior. Its flesh is creamy and custard-like, and it has a sweet and slightly savory flavor. The fruit can weigh up to 7 pounds and can grow up to a foot in length. The Durio tree has large, glossy leaves and can reach up to 130 feet in height. The leaves are dark green and oblong-shaped, with pointed tips. The flowers of the Durio tree are large and showy, with five petals that are yellowish-green in color.
Care Guide
Durio trees require warm and humid conditions to thrive. They prefer well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. Watering should be done regularly, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Fertilizer should be applied every 2 to 3 months during the growing season. Durio trees require full sun exposure and cannot tolerate frost. They are hardy in USDA zones 10 to 12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Durio trees are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. Some common pests include fruit flies, mealybugs, and scale insects. Diseases that affect Durio trees include anthracnose, stem cankers, and root rot. Regular monitoring and proper care can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
Durio trees are native to Southeast Asia and are widely cultivated in countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines. They prefer warm and humid conditions and require well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the taste of Durio fruit?
A: Durio fruit has a sweet and slightly savory flavor.
Q: How tall can a Durio tree grow?
A: Durio trees can reach up to 130 feet in height.
Q: What are some common pests that affect Durio trees?
A: Some common pests include fruit flies, mealybugs, and scale insects.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Durio trees?
A: Durio trees are hardy in USDA zones 10 to 12.
Related Plants
- Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus)
- Breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis)
- Cempedak (Artocarpus integer)
- Marang (Artocarpus odoratissimus)
References
- “Durio zibethinus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b603.
- “Durian.” Purdue University Center for New Crops and Plant Products, hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/durian.html.
- “Durian.” Smithsonian Magazine, 1 Oct. 2006, www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/durian-the-king-of-tropical-fruit-85644168/.
