Durio zibethinus
Family: Bombacaceae

Durian is extensively cultivated in the tropics for its remarkable fruits. The spiny green fruits are the size of a football and can weigh over 2 kg (4.5 lb). They are evil-smelling but have a creamy, edible pulp highly favored by people in Southeast Asian countries. The Chinese call it 'King of Fruits' and many thousands of tourists make a point of tasting it while visiting Malaysia, Thailand and nearby countries. The fast-growing evergreen tree producing these interesting fruits can reach heights of up to 20 m (65 ft). Rarely cultivated in the UK except occasionally in botanical gardens.

Cultivation

Durian is propagated from seed, although superior selections may be grafted onto seedling understocks.

Climate

This tree thrives only in true tropical conditions.