Mangosteen (Mesta)

Planting: Pit size: 1 m3. Spacing: 8 m×8 m. Needs 50% shade for the first 3 years.
Manuring: Prefers high organic content. Apply 20 kg compost + 500 g Bone Meal annually.
Irrigation: Constant moisture is mandatory; lacks root hairs, making it sensitive to short droughts.
Importance: Premium fruit pricing; the "Mesta" variety fruits in 5–7 years compared to 12 years for traditional types.
Nutrient Value: Contains Xanthones (powerful antioxidants).
Medicinal Value: Anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties; rinds used for skin infections and wound healing.
Ecological Value: Slow-growing but lives for 100+ years; excellent for long-term biodiversity.
Ornamental Value: Extreme. Symmetrical, pyramidal growth with glossy, leathery dark green leaves.