Dabai Fruit Plant (Canarium odontophyllum) – A Borneo Treasure for the Home Orchard
Among the botanical wonders of Southeast Asia, the Dabai fruit stands out for its extraordinary flavour, cultural heritage, and nutritional power. Scientifically known as Canarium odontophyllum, this remarkable fruit plant has long been cherished in Borneo—especially in Sarawak, Sabah, and Brunei—where it is celebrated as a seasonal luxury food and a symbol of regional pride.
A Taste Unlike Anything Else
Dabai is often described as a culinary surprise. In its raw form, the pulp carries a complex mix of flavours reminiscent of olives, carrots, and brie cheese. Once soaked in hot water for a few minutes, the transformation is magical—the flesh softens into a smooth, creamy texture similar to avocado or lightly buttered carrots, layered delicately with light olive-like notes. The seeds inside the fruit are edible as well and offer a crunchy richness comparable to almonds or pistachios.
Because of this unique flavour profile, Dabai is not just food—it is an experience. In Sarawak, its arrival every season is met with excitement, and families prepare it with salt, soy sauce, sugar, or chilli depending on their preference.
Natural Source of Wellness
Beyond its culinary distinction, Dabai has gained attention among nutrition researchers for its therapeutic benefits.
The fruit is naturally rich in antioxidants, making it valuable for cellular repair and immune support. Traditionally consumed for improving metabolic health, Dabai has shown potential roles in:
Supporting balanced cholesterol levels
Reducing the risk factors connected with heart disease
Helping the body manage blood sugar, especially in individuals predisposed to type 2 diabetes
Its edible kernel is highly nutritious, containing healthy fats and micronutrients that make it a premium natural food for heart and brain health.
Cultivation – A Rewarding Addition to Collectors
The Dabai tree is a moderate-maintenance fruit bearer, suitable for tropical regions with regular rainfall. It grows into an elegant evergreen tree with glossy foliage, adding both aesthetic and functional value to a home garden.
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Fruiting begins: approximately 3–4 years after planting
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Soil preference: fertile, well-drained soil
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Water requirement: consistent but not water-logged
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Care level: moderate; mulching and occasional organic feeding promote faster growth and flowering
Once harvested, the fruits can be stored briefly and prepared simply—by cleaning and soaking them in hot water until soft—allowing families to enjoy one of the most treasured delicacies of Borneo without complex cooking or additives.
Why Dabai Belongs in Your Garden
For fruit enthusiasts, culinary explorers, and plant collectors, Dabai offers something truly rare: a fruit with unforgettable flavour, deep cultural roots, and meaningful nutritional benefits. It elevates the diversity of a home orchard and introduces a gourmet exotic delicacy straight from your own backyard.
At Veliyath Gardens, growing and preserving unique fruit varieties from across the world is more than a hobby—it is a mission. By bringing Dabai to Indian soil, we make it possible for plant lovers to experience one of Borneo’s finest natural treasures, not just through stories but as a living, fruiting part of their garden.
Dabai Fruit Plant now available at Veliyath Gardens.
A rare culinary jewel, a wellness-rich superfruit, and a rewarding addition for serious collectors — all in one extraordinary tree.
