Garcinia cowa, commonly known as Cowa Mangosteen, is an evergreen tree native to the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia, particularly in countries like India, Thailand, and Malaysia. This species typically grows to a height of 15-25 feet (4.5-7.6 meters) with a similar spread. The tree features a dense canopy with glossy, dark green leaves and produces small, yellow flowers that are not particularly showy. The flowering season occurs sporadically throughout the year in its native climate. The fruits are round, with a thick rind and acidic flavor, resembling a small mangosteen.

Cowa Mangosteen is valued for its edible fruit, which is used in a variety of culinary applications, including curries and pickles, and as a souring agent similar to tamarind. The bark, which contains tannins, is traditionally used for dyeing fabric. In terms of cultivation, Garcinia cowa prefers humid, tropical conditions with well-drained, fertile soils and partial to full sun exposure. It is relatively low-maintenance once established but may require regular watering during dry periods. The plant is also known for its various medicinal properties in traditional medicine, including anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. However, it is not commonly grown outside its native range and can be susceptible to pests like fruit flies and diseases such as root rot if conditions are not ideal.CC BY-SA 4.0