False Mangosteen

(Garcinia xanthochymus)

False Mangosteen (Garcinia xanthochymus)

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Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Garcinia xanthochymus, commonly known as false mangosteen, gamboge, yellow mangosteen, Himalayan Garcinia, or sour mangosteen, is a tropical fruit tree native to a range of habitats including humid forests in valleys and on hills in parts of Asia. Its native range extends from India and southern China to Japan, through Indochina, and down to Peninsular Malaysia, typically at elevations from sea level up to 1400 meters. This evergreen tree can reach a height of 25-30 feet (7.6-9.1 meters) and a width of 6-15 feet (1.8-4.6 meters). The tree is characterized by its glossy, dark green leaves and bears greenish-white flowers in the spring, which are followed by large, yellow, edible fruits with a tart flavor.

Garcinia xanthochymus is valued for its ornamental qualities, including its dense canopy and attractive fruit. It is used in tropical and subtropical gardens for fruit production, as well as for shade and ornamental purposes. The tree requires full sun to partial shade and prefers a humid environment with regular watering, although it is somewhat drought-tolerant once established. It adapts to a variety of soil types, provided they are well-drained. While not commonly grown, its fruit is used in traditional medicine and culinary applications in its native range. Gardeners should be aware that it may require protection from frost and is susceptible to pests such as scales and fruit flies.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 25-30 feet
  • Width: 6-15 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Green, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Slow, Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Humid forests in valleys and on hills from India and southern China to Japan, through Indochina, and down to Peninsular Malaysia at elevations from sea level up to 1400 meters

Other Names

Common Names: False Mangosteen, Gamboge, Yellow Mangosteen, Sour Mangosteen, Garcinia

Scientific Names: , Garcinia xanthochymus, Xanthochymus pictorius, Garcinia tinctoria, Garcinia cambodgiensis, Garcinia pictoria, Garcinia pictorius, Xanthochymus tinctorius, Garcinia roxburghii, Hebradendron pictorium

GBIF Accepted Name: Garcinia xanthochymus Hook.fil. ex J.Anderson