Cherry Mangosteen (Garcinia intermedia)

Cherry Mangosteen (Garcinia intermedia): A Rare Tropical Delight for Your Garden

Common and Local Names

Cherry Mangosteen is known by different names across various regions, reflecting its global recognition and cultural significance:

• 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)

Native Habitat and Distribution

Cherry Mangosteen is indigenous to the tropical forests of Central America, South America, and the Caribbean, thriving in countries such as Costa Rica, Brazil, Mexico, and the Amazon Basin. It has also found a place in Southeast Asia, where its refreshing taste and medicinal properties have made it increasingly popular.

Description of the Fruit

This small, round fruit measures about 2-4 cm in diameter and has a smooth, glossy skin that transitions from yellow to orange and deep red when fully ripe. The thin rind encases a translucent, juicy white pulp that is both sweet and tangy, reminiscent of a blend between lemon, peach, and traditional mangosteen. Inside, it contains one to two small seeds.

Taste and Culinary Uses

The unique sweet-tart flavor of Cherry Mangosteen makes it a versatile ingredient in both fresh consumption and culinary preparations.

• Can be eaten fresh off the tree, providing a naturally refreshing treat.

• Used in making jams, preserves, and syrups.

• Blended into juices and smoothies for a citrusy twist.

• Added to fruit salads for an exotic depth of flavor.

• Fermented into fruit wine in some traditional practices.

• Incorporated into desserts, ice creams, and sorbets.

• Dried and used to make herbal teas with medicinal properties.

Health Benefits of Cherry Mangosteen

Packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and bioactive compounds, Cherry Mangosteen is a powerhouse of nutrition.

• Strengthens Immunity: Rich in Vitamin C, it helps combat infections and enhances immune function.

• Promotes Heart Health: Potassium and antioxidants regulate blood pressure and reduce cardiovascular risks.

• Pain Relief and Anti-Inflammatory: Traditionally used to relieve body pain and inflammation.

• Slows Aging: Loaded with xanthones and flavonoids, it fights oxidative stress and delays signs of aging.

• Stabilizes Blood Sugar: Beneficial for diabetics due to its ability to regulate blood sugar levels.

• Enhances Brain Function: Supports cognitive abilities and improves memory.

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

• Aids Digestion: Its high fiber content prevents constipation and promotes gut health.

• Nourishes Skin: Improves skin texture and helps treat acne.

• Detoxifies the Body: Supports liver and kidney function by flushing out 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 (supports heart and muscle function)

• Calcium: 8-12mg (aids bone strength)

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

• Xanthones & Flavonoids: Potent antioxidants that reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.

Cultivation and Growth of Cherry Mangosteen

This exotic fruit plant is an excellent addition to a tropical or subtropical garden, requiring moderate maintenance to thrive.

• Soil: 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 should not be overwatered.

• Temperature: Thrives in warm, humid tropical climates.

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

• Time to Fruit: Begins fruiting in 3-4 years.

• Maintenance: Requires occasional pruning and mulching to enhance growth.

Preservation and Storage

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

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

• The pulp can be extracted and frozen for long-term use.

• Dried or dehydrated fruit lasts several months.

Cultural and Traditional Significance

• In Central America, Cherry Mangosteen is cherished for both its medicinal properties and refreshing taste.

• In Mexico and Brazil, it is widely used in traditional herbal medicine.

• Some indigenous cultures consider it a sacred fruit, associated with longevity and good health.

• The bark and leaves of the tree are used in folk medicine for treating skin infections and digestive ailments.

How to Incorporate Cherry Mangosteen into Your Daily Life

• Eat Fresh: Enjoy the fruit raw as a refreshing snack.

• Make Juice: Blend the pulp with water and honey for a revitalizing drink.

• Prepare Jams & Syrups: Cook the pulp with sugar for a flavorful spread.

• Enhance Dishes: Add to salads, desserts, and savory dishes for a unique taste.

• Herbal Remedy: Brew dried rinds into an antioxidant-rich tea.

• Skincare: Apply mashed pulp to the skin for a natural glow.

Why Cherry Mangosteen Belongs in Your Garden

Growing your own Cherry Mangosteen tree is an investment in health, flavor, and botanical beauty. This tropical fruit not only adds an exotic touch to your garden but also provides a steady supply of nutritious and delicious fruits. Its resilience in tropical climates makes it a worthwhile addition to any fruit lover’s collection.

Veliyath Gardens is proud to offer high-quality Cherry Mangosteen plants, ensuring you receive a healthy and thriving plant that will reward you with nature’s bounty for years to come. Bring home this extraordinary fruit tree today and experience the flavors and health benefits of the tropics in your own backyard!