Hortiforum

General Info – Lemon Drop Mangosteen, Mameyito, Jorco, Berba, Monkey Fruit

The Lemon Drop Mangosteen produces small, round fruits that are perfectly sized for snacking. They come in both Lemon yellow and orange-skinned varieties. The skin can be easily pierced and peeled with your fingers, revealing a succulent, translucent white pulp surrounding a large seed (or seeds). This aromatic pulp is acidic and slightly sweet, with a flavour very similar to Madruno and Achacha. In addition to being eaten fresh, the fruits can be processed into jams or drinks. Although the Lemon Drop Mangosteen is still largely uncultivated compared to the Purple Mangosteen, it absolutely delivers on flavour.
Lemon Drop Mangosteens are particularly hardy in cool conditions compared to many of their Garcinia relatives. Their foliage is especially cold-hardy, tolerating occasional light frosts once mature. However, they may not fruit in these cooler marginal climates. Gardeners have reported that these plants can tolerate Melbourne winters. Naturally slow-growing, ideal conditions for Lemon Drop Mangosteens include regular watering or plentiful rainfall and either a full sun or partial shade position, although the latter will result in the best fruiting. Most soils are tolerated, provided there is good drainage.
Lemon Drop Mangosteens form a small, bushy tree with an attractive, upright shape. The trees have dark green, leathery leaves that are densely packed, and their ornamental new growth is a striking orange-brown. Due to their compact form, small size, and slow growth rate, they are well-suited for growing in containers or pots.

Plant Profile/Properties