Durian
Durio zibethinusfam. Malvaceae
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
Pl. A4EC — Durio zibethinus
Durio zibethinusDurio zibethinusDurio zibethinusDurio zibethinusDurio zibethinusDurio zibethinusDurio zibethinusDurio zibethinusDurio zibethinusDurio zibethinusDurio zibethinusDurio zibethinusDurio zibethinusDurio zibethinus
IOverview
Overview
Durian, scientifically known as Durio zibethinus, is a large evergreen tree native to Sri Lanka and found in Borneo and Sumatera. This fruit-bearing plant thrives in full sun and moist conditions, preferring light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. It can grow up to 30 meters tall and is known for its distinctive, pungent odor and large, spiky fruits that are highly prized for their edible flesh. The tree also provides other useful parts such as flowers, leaves, seeds, and shoots, making it a valuable asset in various landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Durian?
Durian, scientifically known as Durio zibethinus, is a large evergreen tree native to Sri Lanka and found in Borneo and Sumatera. This fruit-bearing plant thrives in full sun and moist conditions, preferring light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Durian thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in tropical to subtropical regions with a temperature range of 10-12 on the USDA Hardiness Zone scale. The plant can grow up to 30 meters tall and produces edible flowers, fruit, leaves, seeds, and shoots. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
30.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Durian for the first time
8steps
Start with a small, healthy durian plant to ensure success in your first attempt at growing this tropical fruit.
- 1
What you'll need
A young durian plant and well-draining soil.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant during the rainy season or early spring for best results.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a mix of light, medium, and heavy soils with good drainage. Ensure containers are at least 5 feet wide and deep.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the young plant to its permanent location, ensuring it has enough space to grow.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly but avoid overwatering. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and regular watering. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune to maintain shape and remove dead branches. Harvest fruit when it ripens, indicated by its color change and aroma.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in poorly drained soil, not providing enough sunlight, and neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersFruitLeavesSeedShoots
Edible uses: The durian fruit is the most commonly consumed part of the plant, often eaten raw or used in various dishes. The flowers are also edible and can be used to make tea. Young shoots and leaves can be prepared as vegetables, adding a unique flavor to local cuisine. Seeds, while not typically eaten raw, can be processed for oil or other uses.
Other uses:ContainersLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
3 native · 11 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 11 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 3 native· 11 introduced
Asia7 regions
native (1)Sri Lanka
introduced (6)IndiaLaosMyanmarPhilippinesThailandVietnam
Broader regions
native:Borneo, Sumatera
introduced:Andaman Is., Jawa, Lesser Sunda Is., Malaya, Nicobar Is.
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Malvaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Malvaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
About this entry
- Last updated
- Citation
- How to cite this entry · Submit a correction
Back to the cataloguePlant id · a4ecc44e-7bcf-4882-8141-440c9599ad64
Decision aid
Choosing between Durian and something else?
Continue reading
❦❦❦❦
Endpaper · archive updates
Get archive updates
Occasional email when substantial new content lands — plant profiles, seasonal growing notes, folk-remedy additions. Free, no tracking, unsubscribe anytime.