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IIIFolio · plant profile№ 62D1edible
Data provenancePermapeopleTreflePFAFPOWOreviewed 18 Oct 2026methodology → read

Heaven fruit

Willughbeia coriacea
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Willughbeia coriacea (Heaven fruit) — botanical photograph
Pl. 62D1 — Willughbeia coriacea
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I

Overview

Heaven fruit, scientifically known as Willughbeia coriacea, is a large tree native to the tropical regions of Borneo, Jawa, Malaya, Sumatera, and Thailand. This tree thrives in moist environments with light to partial shade, making it adaptable to various soil types, including sandy, medium, and clay soils. It can grow up to 30 meters tall, providing an impressive presence in its habitat. The fruit of the heaven fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. Typically, it is consumed fresh but may also be dried for later use. This plant is hardy in zones 10-12 and can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. Its distinctive ability to withstand full sun and partial shade, along with its moist and heavy soil preferences, makes it a unique feature among other tropical trees. While primarily known for its edible fruit, heaven fruit also adds ornamental value to gardens and landscapes in its native and introduced regions, such as Laos.

Quick answers

What is Heaven fruit?

Heaven fruit, scientifically known as Willughbeia coriacea, is a large tree native to the tropical regions of Borneo, Jawa, Malaya, Sumatera, and Thailand. This tree thrives in moist environments with light to partial shade, making it adaptable to various soil types, including sandy, medium, and clay soils.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Heaven fruit thrives in full to partial sun, preferring moist to wet conditions. It grows well in light, medium, and heavy soils. Hardy in temperate regions, it can tolerate temperatures down to 10-12°F. For propagation, use seeds or cuttings. Regular watering is essential, especially in dry periods. This plant can reach heights of 30 meters, making it a large addition to your garden. Ensure it has enough space to grow.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Moist, Wet
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
30.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Heaven fruit for the first time

8steps

Start with a simple, light-loving plant that thrives in moist soil and partial sun.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Heaven fruit seeds or young plants, potting mix, containers or garden space.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant Heaven fruit during the spring when temperatures are mild and stable.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use a well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, ensuring it's moist but not waterlogged.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds in the ground or start them indoors about 8 weeks before planting outside.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Keep soil consistently moist and provide partial shade to avoid scorching young plants.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Fertilize with a balanced organic fertilizer every few months.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune in late winter to early spring to maintain shape and encourage fruiting.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in full sun, neglecting regular pruning, using chemical fertilizers, and not providing enough support for the plant's height.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of the Heaven fruit (Willughbeia coriacea) is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. Typically, it is consumed fresh but may also be dried for later use. Skip
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

5 native · 1 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 5 native· 1 introduced
Asia2 regions
native (1)Thailand
introduced (1)Laos
Broader regions
native:Borneo, Jawa, Malaya, Sumatera
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Willughbeia coriacea (Heaven fruit) — botanical photograph
Heaven fruit (Willughbeia coriacea)
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Explore further

Companion planting
Growing zone
XII

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