Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana): Future crop for the islands

Mangosteen is one of the most popular fruits in the South East Asia. It is commonly referred to as the ‘finest fruit of the world’ and the ‘Queen of tropical fruits’ owing to its superior taste, delicate aroma and exotic appearance. It is found growing in the Tropical Asian countries including Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Sri Lanka and parts of Australia. The climate of Andaman and Nicobar islands being similar to the area of commercial production of mangosteen, there is ample scope for its cultivation in the Islands. In fact a theory suggested that mangosteen was developed as a natural cross between two wild species, one being from the islands. Mangosteen grows well in coconut plantations as intercrop and hence, it could be a viable option for the island farmers. Under island conditions, harvesting period is generally observed during May to August. The plant requires proper care during early stages of growth in the form of nutrient, water and shade management. Mangosteen in most of the Asian countries is pooled from backyard farms and marketed globally. Similarly, systematic cultivation of mangosteen in our islands and pooling of produce could pave way for its transportation to mainland markets. Andaman Islands, being a popular tourist destination, marketing of this exotic fruit would not be difficult.

Benefit:Diversification of island agriculture through crops such as mangosteen would improve the profitability of the sector in long run.

Source : Contact person with Name, Designation e-mail and phone no: Dr. Pooja Bohra, Scientist (Fruit Science), Division of Horticulture and Forestry, ICAR-CIARI, Port Blair. Email: pooja.bohra@icar.gov.in, Phone: 9933263442