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Mangosteen tree is one of the most popular tropical fruit trees in the world. The fruit is delicious and nutritious, and the tree is beautiful and easy to grow.

Alternative name

• Garcinia mangostana
  
• Mangifera indica
  
• Morinda citrifolia
  
• Punica granatum
  
• Tamarindus indica

Basic info

• The mangosteen tree is native to Southeast Asia.
  
• The tree typically grows to a height of 20-25 meters.
  
• The tree has a dense, round crown of glossy, dark green leaves.
  
• The leaves are 15-20 cm long and 10-12 cm wide.
  
• The tree produces a spherical, dark purple fruit that is about 5-7 cm in diameter.
  
• The fruit has a thick, white flesh that is sweet and tangy.
  
• The fruit is typically eaten fresh or used in juices and other beverages.
  
• The tree's bark, leaves, and fruit contain a number of compounds with medicinal properties.
  
• The mangosteen tree is cultivated in tropical regions around the world.
  
• The fruit is sometimes referred to as the "queen of fruits" due to its nutritional and health benefits.

Planting Process

1. For mangosteen tree, first step is to find a good location. The tree prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
   
2. The next step is to prepare the planting area. Remove any weeds and loosen the soil.
   
3. Choose a healthy mangosteen tree from a nursery.
   
4. Dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the tree’s root ball.
   
5. Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil.
   
6. Water the tree well.
   
7. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree.
   
8. Fertilize the tree every six months.
   
9. Prune the tree as needed to maintain its shape.
   
10. Enjoy the fruit of your labor!

Considering the Soil

About soil condition, the Mangosteen tree grows best in moist, well-drained soils, with a pH of 6.0-7.0. It is also intolerant of salt. The Mangosteen tree is a tropical evergreen tree that can grow up to 25 m tall.

Light requirement

So, like the other fruit trees, the mangosteen tree needs plenty of sun to produce fruit. It should be in an area that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day. If it doesn't get enough sun, the fruit will be small and the tree will produce less fruit.

The Temperature

The temperature condition that is best for a mangosteen tree is one that is warm but not too hot. The tree does not like it when the temperature gets below freezing, so it is best to keep it in an area that is warm.

Ideal Humidity

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is above 70 percent. It is possible to maintain the relative humidity at this level by using a humidifier or by placing the pot on a pebble tray. The Mangosteen tree does not like to be too wet or too dry, so be sure to check the soil often and water when needed. A general rule of thumb is to water when the top inch of soil is dry.

Fertilizer Requirement

For the fertilizer, this type of plant requires a lot of nutrients in order to grow properly. A good way to provide those nutrients is through composting or using a high-quality organic fertilizer. You can also use a slow-release fertilizer if you are using a mangrove tree as your root system. Just make sure that you do not over fertilize the plant as it can become weak and susceptible to disease.

Light requirement

Pruning a mangosteen tree is important to its health and vigor. Pruning should be done in the early spring, before new growth begins. Mangosteen trees are fast-growing, so pruning back the tips of branches will encourage the tree to produce more leaves and fruit.

Plant Propagation

Propagation is done by seed, root cuttings or air-layering. Seed germination is erratic and may take up to three months. The seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before planting. Root cuttings are taken from young trees and planted in well-drained soil. Air-layering is done by wounding a branch and covering it with moist sphagnum moss.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate occurs during the wet season. However, with proper irrigation and fertilization, growth can take place throughout the year. Young trees should be given extra attention to ensure a strong start and rapid growth. With good management, a mangosteen tree can produce fruit within three to five years.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are yellowing of the leaves, browning of the leaves, and dying of the leaves. These problems are caused by different factors such as nutrient deficiency, pests, and diseases. To correct these problems, you need to first identify the cause and then take appropriate measures to solve it.

Basics of Growing

• If you live in a warm climate, you can plant your mangosteen tree outdoors.
  
• Choose a sunny location to plant your tree.
  
• Mangosteen trees need well-drained soil. Add organic matter to improve drainage if necessary.
  
• Water your tree regularly, especially during the hot summer months.
  
• Fertilize your tree every few months with a balanced fertilizer.
  
• Prune your mangosteen tree regularly to encourage new growth.
  
• Protect your tree from strong winds by staking it or planting it in a sheltered location.
  
• Harvest mangosteens when they are ripe. The fruit will fall from the tree when it is ready to be picked.
  
• Store unripe mangosteens in a cool, dry place. Ripe fruit can be refrigerated for up to a week.
  
• Enjoy your delicious mangosteens!

Related Plants

• Popinac
  
• Guava
  
• Rambutan
  
• Lychee
  
• Durian
  
• Star fruit
  
• Jackfruit
  
• Sapodilla
  
• Soursop
  
• Wave apple

Source:
Mangosteen - Purdue University
(PDF) Phenological growth stages in mangosteen ... - academia.edu
Studies on Juvenility of Mangosteen (Garcinia Mangostana L.)