Contents
Description
Durio Zibethinus, commonly known as the durian, is a tropical fruit that is native to Southeast Asia. It is known as the “king of fruits” due to its distinctive odor, unique taste, and spiky exterior. The fruit is round or oblong in shape and can weigh up to 7 pounds. It has a green or brown exterior with sharp spines, and its interior consists of soft, creamy flesh that is yellow or orange in color. The durian is highly prized for its rich, complex flavor and is used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Durio |
Appearance
The durian is a large, spiky fruit that can weigh up to 7 pounds. It has a green or brown exterior with sharp spines that can be up to 6 inches long. The interior of the fruit consists of soft, creamy flesh that is yellow or orange in color. The flesh is divided into several sections, each containing a large seed. The flesh has a rich, complex flavor and a distinctive odor that is often described as being similar to rotten onions, gym socks, or turpentine.
Care Guide
The durian tree requires a warm, humid climate to thrive. It prefers well-drained, fertile soil and should be watered regularly during the growing season. Fertilizer can be applied every 2-3 months, and the tree should be pruned annually to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. The durian tree requires full sun and is hardy in zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Common pests that can affect the durian tree include mealybugs, scale insects, and fruit flies. Diseases that can affect the tree include anthracnose, stem canker, and fruit rot. Proper care and maintenance of the tree can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
The durian tree is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly found in tropical rainforests. It is also grown in other parts of the world, including Australia, Hawaii, and South America. The tree prefers a warm, humid climate and can grow up to 50 feet tall.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the durian fruit healthy?
A: Yes, the durian fruit is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and iron. It is also a good source of dietary fiber.
Q: Why does the durian fruit have such a strong odor?
A: The durian fruit contains sulfur compounds that give it its distinctive odor. Some people find the smell unpleasant, while others enjoy it.
Q: How do you eat a durian fruit?
A: To eat a durian fruit, you must first remove the spiky exterior. Then, you can break the fruit into sections and remove the large seeds. The flesh can be eaten raw or used in a variety of recipes.
Q: How long does a durian fruit last?
A: A durian fruit can last for up to a week if stored in the refrigerator.
Related Plants
- Durio kutejensis
- Durio graveolens
- Durio dulcis
- Durio macrantha
References
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/durian-fruit#nutrition
- https://www.britannica.com/plant/durian
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/durian
