| Gamboge | |
| Garcinia xanthochymus | |
| a.k.a. Garcinia tinctoria, False Mangosteen, Yellow Mangosteen |
Golden yellow berry fruit, 3-4" in diameter with a yellow, juicy, and acidic pulp usually containing two seeds. Flavor is quite tasty, and a bit sour.
Description: Medium sized tree with large leaves. Flowering occurs between March and May.
Hardiness: Trees are fairly hardy, easily surviving temperatures to 32F with no injury. Protection should be given if temperatures drop below 32F for any length of time.
Growing Environment: Unknown, but trees seem to need little care other than regular water.
Propagation: By seeds.
Uses: Fruits can be eaten fresh out of hand. Often used in making jams. Can be used as a substitute for tamarind in cooking. Fruit juice and bark extract are used as dyes.
Native Range: Native range from India through Malay peninsula.