Cherry Mangosteen Fruit Plants (Garcinia Intermedia)

Cherry Mangosteen Fruit Plant (Garcinia intermedia): A Complete Guide

Common Names

Cherry Mangosteen is known by several names worldwide, reflecting its cultural significance across different regions:

• English: Cherry Mangosteen, Lemon Drop Mangosteen, Mexican Mangosteen

• Spanish (Central & South America): Mameyito, Achachairú, Mangostán de Monte

• Portuguese (Brazil): Achachairu

• Thai: Ma Phut Noi

• Malay: Asam Kecil

• Filipino: Santol-Santolan

• Indonesian: Manggis Kecil

Botanical Classification

• Scientific Name: Garcinia intermedia

• Family: Clusiaceae (Guttiferae)

Origin and Distribution

Cherry Mangosteen is native to Central America, South America, and the Caribbean, thriving in tropical regions such as Costa Rica, Brazil, Mexico, and the Amazon basin. It has been introduced to Southeast Asia and other tropical locations due to its delicious fruit and medicinal properties.

Description of the Fruit

Cherry Mangosteen is a small, round fruit with a smooth, glossy skin that turns from yellow to orange or deep red upon ripening. It typically measures 2-4 cm in diameter. The thin rind encases a juicy, translucent white pulp, which is both sweet and tangy, often compared to the taste of madruno (Garcinia madruno) and lemon drop candy. The fruit contains one to two small seeds.

Culinary Uses and Taste

• The pulp has a sweet and sour taste, often described as a mix of lemon, peach, and mangosteen.

• Can be eaten fresh, straight from the tree.

• Used in making jams, preserves, and syrups.

• Commonly blended into juices and smoothies.

• Added to salads and fruit bowls for an exotic flavor.

• In some regions, it is fermented into fruit wine.

• Pulp is used to create desserts, ice creams, and sorbets.

Health Benefits of Cherry Mangosteen

Cherry Mangosteen is packed with powerful antioxidants, vitamins, and bioactive compounds, making it a highly beneficial fruit for overall health:

1. Boosts Immunity: High in vitamin C, it strengthens the immune system and helps ward off infections.

2. Heart Health: The fruit’s potassium and antioxidants help regulate blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart diseases.

3. Pain Relief: Traditionally used to relieve body pain and inflammation.

4. Anti-Aging Properties: Rich in xanthones and flavonoids, it slows down aging by combating oxidative stress.

5. Lowers Blood Sugar: Helps in stabilizing blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for diabetics.

6. Promotes Brain Function: Enhances cognitive abilities and memory.

7. Cancer Prevention: Contains bioactive compounds that may help inhibit cancer cell growth.

8. Digestive Health: The fruit’s fiber content aids in digestion and prevents constipation.

9. Skin Nourishment: Promotes healthy, glowing skin and helps treat acne.

10. Detoxification: Helps cleanse the liver and kidneys of toxins.

Nutritional Value (Per 100g of Fruit)

• Calories: 35-50 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 8-12g

• Fiber: 2-3g

• Vitamin C: 15-25mg (boosts immunity and skin health)

• Potassium: 120-180mg (maintains heart and muscle function)

• Calcium: 8-12mg (supports bone health)

• Iron: 0.3-0.7mg (aids in oxygen transport in the blood)

• Xanthones & Flavonoids: Powerful antioxidants that help fight inflammation and aging.

Cultivation and Growth of Cherry Mangosteen

• Soil Requirements: Prefers rich, well-drained loamy soil with a slightly acidic pH.

• Sunlight: Grows well in full sun to partial shade.

• Watering: Requires consistent watering, but avoid overwatering.

• Temperature: Thrives in warm, tropical and subtropical climates.

• Propagation: Grown from seeds, air layering, or grafting.

• Bloom Time/Fruiting: The tree begins fruiting in 3-4 years.

• Maintenance: Moderate; requires occasional pruning and mulching to enhance growth.

Preservation and Storage

• Fresh fruits last 3-5 days at room temperature.

• Refrigeration can extend the shelf life up to 10-12 days.

• The pulp can be extracted and frozen for longer use.

• Sun-drying or dehydrating the fruit preserves it for months.

Cultural and Traditional Significance

• In Central America, the fruit is cherished for its medicinal benefits and refreshing taste.

• In Mexico and Brazil, Cherry Mangosteen is a part of traditional herbal medicine.

• In some indigenous cultures, it is considered a sacred fruit associated with good health and longevity.

• The bark and leaves of the tree are used in folk medicine to treat skin infections and digestive issues.

How to Add Cherry Mangosteen to Your Daily Life

1. Eat Fresh: Enjoy the fruit as a sweet and tangy treat.

2. Make Juice: Blend the pulp with water and honey for a refreshing drink.

3. Prepare Jams & Syrups: Cook the pulp with sugar for a delicious spread.

4. Enhance Dishes: Use it in fruit salads, desserts, and even spicy dishes.

5. Skin Care Remedy: Apply mashed pulp on the skin to reduce acne and blemishes.

6. Herbal Tea: Dry the rind and brew it into a tea with medicinal properties.

Conclusion

Cherry Mangosteen (Garcinia intermedia) is a remarkable tropical fruit with a unique balance of sweetness and tanginess, making it a delightful addition to both culinary and medicinal applications. With its nutrient-dense composition, potent antioxidants, and extensive health benefits, this fruit is a must-have for those looking to enrich their diet naturally. Whether enjoyed fresh, blended into a smoothie, or used as a herbal remedy, Cherry Mangosteen offers an extraordinary blend of flavor, nutrition, and tradition.