Cuban Mangosteen (Garcinia aristata)
Ultra-Rare Caribbean Treasure with Glossy Leaves & Tangy Fruit
Cuban Mangosteen (Garcinia aristata) is one of the rarest and most unique members of the Garcinia family — native only to Cuba and parts of the Caribbean. Often confused with its cousin Garcinia intermedia, Garcinia aristata stands apart for its harder-to-find status, glossy deep green foliage, and small but deliciously tangy fruits.
The bright orange fruits have a thin skin and soft, juicy pulp with a tropical sweet-sour flavor that makes them a favorite among collectors and rare fruit enthusiasts. Beyond its edible appeal, Cuban Mangosteen’s dense evergreen canopy and ornamental form make it an excellent choice for tropical food forests, collectors’ gardens, and conservation growers.
Why You'll Love It:
- Rare and hard-to-source tropical fruit species
- Produces small, orange, sweet-tart fruits with tropical flavor
- Dense, glossy evergreen foliage with ornamental appeal
- Supports biodiversity and pollinators in tropical gardens
- Perfect for rare fruit collectors and specialty food forests
Cultural & Ecological Significance:
As one of Cuba’s botanical gems, Garcinia aristata holds important conservation value, with limited wild populations and high desirability among rare fruit growers worldwide. Its sweet-tart fruit can be eaten fresh, juiced, or used in tropical desserts and preserves. While not widely used in commercial agriculture, its rarity makes it highly sought after for specialty tropical collections and biodiversity gardens. Growing Cuban Mangosteen helps preserve a piece of Caribbean botanical heritage while providing delicious rewards for the patient grower.