Durian
durio zibethinus
Also known as: ["King of Fruits","Durian Raja"]
Overview
A tropical tree species known for its large, spiky fruit with a pungent odor and creamy texture.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Durio |
| Botanical Name: | Durio zibethinus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: tropical garden or greenhouse with ample space for root development
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"22–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"11–12"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining loamy soil with organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or biannually, typically after fruiting or during dormancy.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to encourage new fruiting branches.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Use shade cloth in extreme heat; rotate plant for even light exposure; avoid direct sun on leaves during peak hours.
Watering
every 7–10 days, more frequently in hot, dry conditions
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid letting the plant sit in water, and ensure soil dries slightly between waterings.
Soil
well-draining, rich loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Warm tropical conditions; ideal range 75–85°F (24–29°C); intolerant of frost.
Use a thermometer to monitor conditions; avoid placing near drafty windows or heat sources; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced fertilizer
Dilute liquid fertilizer to half strength; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; fertilize after watering.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; stem cuttings can also be attempted but are less reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium, plant seeds/cuttings, maintain humidity, provide warmth, monitor for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Hormone
Rooting hormone can be used for cuttings but is not essential for seeds.
Timeline
Seeds may take 2–4 weeks to germinate; cuttings can root in 4–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining soil mix, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning, heading back, and removal of crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to shape the tree, remove dead/diseased branches, and improve air circulation for fruit production.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead wood, shape the canopy, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter for young trees; mature trees may not need larger pots but fresh soil.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in new pot with fresh soil, water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot young trees annually to encourage growth; mature trees may only need repotting every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil mix, inspect roots, prune if needed, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure proper drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or bud abortion in response to cold or heat stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth, cause leaf drop, and can lead to irreversible damage or death.
Solution: Provide frost protection, move indoors in cold weather, or use heating mats for root zone warmth.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat causes wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced fruit set due to dehydration and metabolic stress.
Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade, water deeply, and ensure good air circulation to mitigate heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type, dilute correctly, apply evenly, flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicSimilar to dogs, durian is toxic to cats due to its high sugar content and theofylline. The seeds pose a significant risk due to their cyanogenic glycosides, which can lead to serious health complications.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicDurian can be toxic to dogs due to its high sugar content and the presence of theofylline, which can cause gastrointestinal upset and other health issues. The seeds are particularly dangerous due to their cyanogenic glycosides.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicDurio zibethinus, commonly known as durian, is generally considered safe for human consumption. However, the seeds contain small amounts of hydrogen cyanide and can be toxic if ingested in large quantities. The fruit itself is rich in nutrients and antioxidants, with no significant toxic effects reported under normal consumption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in excessive quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is durian safe for human consumption?
A: Yes, durian is non-toxic and widely consumed as a food source.
Q: Why does durian have a strong odor?
A: The pungent smell is due to the presence of volatile sulfur compounds, which are natural byproducts of its ripening process.
Q: Can durian be grown in non-tropical climates?
A: No, durian requires a tropical climate with high humidity and temperatures above 20°C (68°F) to thrive.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, more freque |
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