The
durian (
/ˈdjʊriən/)
[2] is the
fruit of several
tree species belonging to the
genus Durio and the
Malvaceae family[1][3] (although some taxonomists place
Durio in a distinct family, Durionaceae
[1]). Widely known and revered in
southeast Asia as the "king of fruits", the durian is distinctive for its large size, unique
odour, and formidable
thorn-covered
husk. The fruit can grow as large as 30 centimetres (12 in) long and 15 centimetres (6 in) in diameter, and it typically weighs one to three kilograms (2 to 7 lb). Its shape ranges from oblong to round, the colour of its husk green to brown, and its flesh pale yellow to red, depending on the species.
The edible flesh emits a distinctive odour, strong and penetrating even when the husk is intact. Some people regard the durian as fragrant; others find the aroma overpowering and offensive. The smell evokes reactions from deep appreciation to intense disgust, and has been described variously as
almonds, rotten onions,
turpentine and gym socks. The odour has led to the fruit's banishment from certain hotels and public transportation in southeast Asia