Durian (Nonthapuri, Bud) Fruit Plant

Nonthaburi Durian is one of the world's most prized durian varieties and is often called the "King of Fruits." While its distinctive aroma is famously divisive, its rich, creamy texture and sweet flavour have made it a favourite across Asia and the Pacific Islands.

Nonthaburi, Thailand, is renowned for producing some of the most sought-after durian varieties, including Kan Yao and Mon Thong. These premium fruits are highly valued for their exceptional quality. In 2019, a rare Nonthaburi durian was sold at auction for $48,000, highlighting its remarkable reputation and demand.

The Durian (Durio zibethinus) is the fruit of several tree species belonging to the genus Durio. The name "durian" is derived from the Malay-Indonesian word "duri," meaning "spike," referring to the fruit's thorn-covered husk. The fruits are large, ovoid to ellipsoid in shape, weighing up to 5 kg, with a thick, spiny outer shell that is typically olive green in colour.

Durian is famous for its strong aroma, which people either love or dislike. Many enjoy its rich, sweet, creamy, and satisfying taste, while others find its distinctive smell similar to rotten onions. However, for many enthusiasts, the unique flavour more than makes up for its powerful aroma.

Durian seeds are small, round to oval-shaped and resemble jackfruit seeds. When boiled, they are edible and have a mild flavour similar to boiled jackfruit seeds, although many people choose to discard them.

MAINTENANCE OF THE PLANTATION

Once a plantation has been established, regular maintenance is essential for healthy tree growth and maximum fruit production. Protect the trees from extreme weather, insects, fungal diseases, and animals. Proper orchard management, including watering, fertilizing, pruning, and weed control, helps maintain healthy and productive durian trees.

PEST & DISEASE MANAGEMENT

Like all fruit trees, durian may occasionally be affected by insects and diseases depending on climate and growing conditions. Proper maintenance, including watering, fertilizing, pruning, spraying when necessary, weeding, and orchard sanitation, helps minimize most pest and disease problems and keeps the trees healthy.

HARVESTING YOUR DURIAN FRUIT

Durian fruits generally mature 125–135 days after flowering, while some varieties mature within 110–116 days after anthesis. The best eating quality is usually reached about 4 months after flowering.

Signs of maturity include dark brown spine tips, clearly visible grooves between the spines, soft and flexible fruit stalks, swollen stalk joints, and the characteristic strong aroma. Harvest the fruit by cutting the stalk with a sharp knife while it is still attached to the tree. Avoid allowing the fruit to fall naturally, as this may reduce fruit quality.

Ideal for: Home Gardens, Tropical Orchards, Exotic Fruit Collections, Premium Fruit Farming, and Commercial Durian Cultivation.