Durian

Overview

Durian bears large, spiky fruit with rich, creamy, custard-like flesh and a powerful smell that people either love or hate.

History

Native to Borneo and Sumatra, and prized throughout Southeast Asia.

Growing on Kauaʻi

• Needs deep, rich, well-drained soil, steady rain, warmth, and wind shelter.
• Best in warm, wet lowlands.

Planting and propagation

• Grafted trees bear much sooner than seedlings.
• Plant in a sheltered spot and mulch heavily.

Care and maintenance

• Never let young trees dry out.
• Prune to a strong structure.

Role in the guild

A large canopy fruit tree for wet-side guilds, with banana for shelter while young.

Harvest

Fruit falls when ripe; collect it promptly (and never stand under a tree with ripe fruit). Eat within a few days.

Uses

• Food: fresh flesh; seeds can be boiled or roasted.

Problems to watch

• Falling fruit is heavy and spiky; plant well away from paths and buildings.
• Root rot in poorly drained soil.

General guidance for Kauaʻi; conditions vary by site. Check any new plant at plantpono.org before planting.