Hortiforum

General Info – Yellow Mangosteen, Gamboge, False Mangosteen

With its tangy, golden fruits, suitability for subtropical conditions, and tolerance for shaded locations, the Yellow Mangosteen emerges as an exceptional variety within the Garcinia genus.
Renowned for its vibrant tartness, it stands out as the sourest among commonly cultivated Garcinias, making it a favourite for some. The juicy, yellow pulp carries a strong yet pleasant acidity, appealing to enthusiasts of tart fruits, often likened to a blend of sour Mango and Peach flavours. Whether consumed fresh for its invigorating taste or processed into sweet juices, preserves, or incorporated into sherbets and vinegars, the Yellow Mangosteen offers a versatile culinary ingredient. These golden fruits grow in clusters, with individual fruits ripening progressively, prolonging the harvest period for long-term enjoyment. Yellow Mangosteen can be utilised as a substitute for the bright acidity of Tamarind and is a abundant source of citric acid.
Originating in the humid, tropical forests of South to Southeast Asia, the Yellow Mangosteen thrives as an understory plant, displaying remarkable tolerance to shaded environments. While young trees prefer partial shade, they mature to withstand full sun exposure, although partial shade remains suitable even as they reach maturity. Notably, the Yellow Mangosteen exhibits tolerance to occasional light frosts, making it well-suited for subtropical climates, a valuable trait within the Garcinia genus, which typically struggles outside ultratropical regions (see Purple Mangosteen). While it adapts to various soil types, in marginal climates, it thrives best in rich, loam soils that are well-draining yet moisture-retentive. Brief dry spells may stimulate flowering, and the fruiting cycle persists even during drought conditions, although ample watering is generally preferred and output may be diminished during drought. Remarkably slow-growing, both in stature and time to fruiting, seedling-grown trees may require over seven years before bearing fruit.
Typically reaching heights of up to 10 metres, Yellow Mangosteen trees develop into medium-sized specimens. Their large, elegant leaves, glossy and shiny, serve as the primary ornamental feature, showcasing beauty in both mature and new growth stages. With its dense crown of slender branches and pyramidal silhouette, the Yellow Mangosteen presents an aesthetically pleasing appearance, making it an excellent choice for a specimen tree.
Combining its distinctive, majestic drooping leaves with its attractive form, the Yellow Mangosteen offers not only ornamental beauty but also uniquely flavourful fruits, enriching both culinary and visual experiences.

Plant Profile/Properties