The Kasturi Mango plant is a rare, exotic tropical fruit tree native to the Kalimantan region of Borneo. Sadly, it is now considered extinct in the wild due to deforestation, but it is preserved globally through small-scale cultivation and home gardening.

Key Features of the Plant and Fruit Unique

APPEARANCE: The plant stands out for its dramatic ornamental appeal, featuring distinctive young foliage and stems that exhibit a dark purple, deep red, or blackish hue.

THE FRUIT: The fruit looks similar to a large plum. It starts green and matures into a striking deep purple-black skin covered in small white specks.

FLESH AND TASTE: Cutting into the dark skin reveals a contrasting, fiberless vibrant golden-orange or yellow flesh. It is highly prized for its rich, buttery texture and sweet flavor with unique musky and floral notes.

SIZE: The fruits are compact, measuring 4 to 6 cm long and weighing around 150 to 200 grams.

Tree Profile & Growing Conditions

GROWTH HABIT: In its native tropical habitat, full-grown wild trees could reach up to 10 metres. However, nursery-bought grafted varieties are dwarf and compact, typically kept small via pruning.

CONTAINER GARDENING: Because of its compact nature when managed, it is highly suitable for container gardening on terraces, balconies, or small patios.

SUNLIGHT: Requires full exposure, needing 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight every day.

SOIL & WATER: Thrives in well-draining, fertile, slightly acidic soil. It requires moderate watering; keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged to avoid root rot.

CLIMATE: Prefers warm, humid, tropical or subtropical environments (ideal temperatures between 22°C and 38°C). If grown in cooler climates like North India, it must be grown in pots and moved indoors to protect it from winter frost.

FRUITING TIME: Grafted plants are early bearers and will usually start producing fruit within 2 to 3 years. It typically fruits during the summer months.