{"id":42823,"date":"2025-07-01T11:56:43","date_gmt":"2025-07-01T03:56:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/shopee.com.my\/blog\/?p=42823"},"modified":"2025-07-01T11:54:44","modified_gmt":"2025-07-01T03:54:44","slug":"types-of-durians-in-malaysia","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/shopee.com.my\/blog\/types-of-durians-in-malaysia\/","title":{"rendered":"Do You Know Your Durians? From Musang King To Red Prawn, We Break Them Down Here"},"content":{"rendered":"

As Malaysians, we\u2019re no strangers to durians. When the \u201cKing Of Fruits\u201d season rolls around, all types of durians<\/span>\u00a0in Malaysia<\/span> go on display waiting to be savoured. Truthfully, our love affair with the thorny fruit is unquenchable, and many are willing to drain their wallets and go to great lengths for their favourites.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

When Is Durian Season In Malaysia?<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"durian
Credit: Jim Teo<\/span><\/a> via <\/span>Unsplash<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Generally, the <\/span>durian<\/span><\/a> season starts in early April and continues until August-September. However, each <\/span>fruit<\/span><\/a>\u2019s seasonal run may differ from one another. For example, the famous Musang King is reportedly most ripe in late June.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

But for durian novices, it\u2019s easy to get lost in the sea of names and jargon, making the durian selection process a mind-boggling one. We detail all well-known <\/span>types of durians in Malaysia<\/span> below, explaining their flavours and textures. By the end of it, we hope it\u2019ll help with your next durian haul!<\/span><\/p>\n

Explaining The Different <\/span>Types Of Durians In Malaysia<\/span><\/h2>\n

There are no less than 17 types!<\/p>\n

1.\u00a0 \u00a0Musang King aka Mao Shan Wang<\/span><\/h3>\n
\"types
Credit: @8days_eat<\/span><\/a> via Instagram<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Without a doubt, the reigning champ of the durian empire is the <\/span>Musang King<\/span><\/a> or Mao Shan Wang, making it the most well-known <\/span>type of durian in Malaysia<\/span> and beyond. The fruit\u2019s claim to fame is its creamy flesh that melts into flavours of rich bitterness and sweetness in the mouth. Smells as good as it tastes, the Musang King is equally delicious in <\/span>ice cream<\/span><\/a> or <\/span>pastries<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Flavour:<\/b> Creamy and bitter-sweet<\/span><\/p>\n

Texture:<\/b> Butter-like thick flesh<\/span><\/p>\n

Colour:<\/b> Bright yellow<\/span><\/p>\n

2.\u00a0 \u00a0D24<\/span><\/h3>\n
\"types
Credit: durianbb_my<\/span><\/a> on Shopee<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Before Musang King, there was <\/span>D24<\/span><\/a>. While its glory days are somewhat behind it, it still commands a strong following of fans who remain loyal to its distinct bitterness. There are also hints of <\/span>alcohol<\/span><\/a>, which gives the fruit a full-bodied mouthfeel. If you\u2019re bringing a friend to try durian for the first time, go for this because it isn\u2019t too overpowering.<\/span><\/p>\n

Flavour: <\/b>Mostly bitter with hints of sweetness and alcohol<\/span><\/p>\n

Texture: <\/b>Robust, firm, and thick. Can be a little dry at times<\/span><\/p>\n

Colour: <\/b>Pale yellow<\/span><\/p>\n

3.\u00a0 \u00a0Tekka<\/span><\/h3>\n
\"tekka
Credit: Durian BB<\/a><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Every kingdom needs a queen. Tekka, also known as the Musang Queen, comes on the tail of the Musang King\u2019s reputation. However, Tekka stands on its own for its consistent texture and bitterness although it doesn\u2019t look like much. In terms of scarcity among the <\/span>types of durians in Malaysia<\/span>, the Tekka is hard to come by. So if you ever see one, don\u2019t think twice to try it.<\/span><\/p>\n

Flavour: <\/b>Bitter with an overlaying tartness<\/span><\/p>\n

Texture: <\/b>Moist and wrinkly, breaking easily<\/span><\/p>\n

Colour:<\/b> Pale, almost-white yellow<\/span><\/p>\n

4.\u00a0 \u00a0Black Thorn<\/span><\/h3>\n
\"black
Credit: imannadiah<\/span><\/a> on Shopee<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Comparing appearances among the <\/span>types of durians in Malaysia<\/span>, you can\u2019t miss a Black Thorn if you see one. Its flesh has a palpable <\/span>orange<\/span><\/a> hue reminiscing of a setting sun. Picking it up, you\u2019ll feel the softness of the fiberless, buttery flesh that holds flavours where bitterness and custard-like sweetness intertwine. All of these don\u2019t come cheap, though. The Black Thorn can be heavy on the <\/span>wallet<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Flavour: <\/b>Like the Musang King, expect bitter-sweet flavours but with more balance between the two<\/span><\/p>\n

Texture: <\/b>Light, <\/span>marshmallow<\/span><\/a>-smooth<\/span><\/p>\n

Colour:<\/b> Light orange<\/span><\/p>\n

5.\u00a0 \u00a0Red Prawn<\/span><\/h3>\n
\"types
Credit: mydavidng<\/span><\/a> on Shopee<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

If you have a <\/span>sweet tooth<\/span><\/a>, then the Red Prawn will suit your taste buds just right. Actively grown in Johor and Pahang, the Red Prawn is closer to being a \u201cdessert\u201d than other <\/span>types of durians in Malaysia<\/span>. Creamy and rich, there\u2019s an obvious absence of bitterness in the reddish flesh, but that\u2019s replaced with memorable sweetness.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Flavour: <\/b>Sweet<\/span><\/p>\n

Texture: <\/b>Creamy but can be slightly watery<\/span><\/p>\n

Colour: <\/b>Red-orange<\/span><\/p>\n

6.\u00a0 \u00a0Golden Phoenix<\/span><\/h3>\n
\"types
Credit: @99oldtrees<\/span><\/a> via Instagram<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

You\u2019ll smell a Golden Phoenix durian from a mile away because of its pungent aroma. Taste-wise, it\u2019s not as creamy as the D24 or Musang King due to the higher <\/span>water<\/span><\/a> content in the flesh. As such, it\u2019s an acquired taste. But its affordability and availability make the Golden Phoenix a popular choice among casual durian eaters.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Flavour:<\/b> Bitter, occasionally sweet<\/span><\/p>\n

Texture: <\/b>Less creamy with a watery texture<\/span><\/p>\n

Colour: <\/b>Pale yellow-white<\/span><\/p>\n

7.\u00a0 \u00a0XO<\/span><\/h3>\n
\"XO
Credit: @dharinisubra<\/span><\/a> via Instagram<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Strong and full-bodied like the <\/span>cognac<\/span><\/a> that it\u2019s named after, the XO gets its signature bitterness from prolonged fermentation. This process also gives it a washed-out look, which might look unappealing at first glance. But when you take in the fruit, you\u2019ll be hit with flavours that are certainly larger than life. The XO is one of the most well-received <\/span>types of durians in Malaysia<\/span>.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Flavour: <\/b>Bitter with an alcohol aftertaste<\/span><\/p>\n

Texture:<\/b> Soft and slightly watery<\/span><\/p>\n

Colour:<\/b> Pale yellow-white<\/span><\/p>\n

8.\u00a0 \u00a0D101<\/span><\/h3>\n
\"types
Credit: @the_colour_violet<\/span><\/a> via Instagram<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Critically acclaimed in Johor, the D101 combines bitterness, sweetness, and fibrous flesh into a delectable treat. It\u2019s the perfect durian to satisfy your cravings without feeling guilty, which also makes it accessible for young children and the elderly! As the flesh is firmer than other <\/span>types of Malaysian durians<\/span>, it falls off the seed easily so don’t worry about making a mess.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Flavour: <\/b>Bitter-sweet<\/span><\/p>\n

Texture: <\/b>Fibrous and firm<\/span><\/p>\n

Colour: <\/b>Yellow with subtle orange tones<\/span><\/p>\n

9.\u00a0 \u00a0D13<\/span><\/h3>\n
\"D13
Credit: figamanputra<\/span><\/a> on Shopee<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Easily mistaken as Red Prawns, the D13 has deep orange flesh that\u2019s mostly sweet with flavours of bitterness sprinkled throughout. That said, durian aficionados may find the D13\u2019s overall appeal too mild and unsatisfying. By comparison, the D13\u2019s seeds are also larger than other styles of durian in Malaysia.<\/span><\/p>\n

Flavour: <\/b>Sweet with subtle bitterness<\/span><\/p>\n

Texture:<\/b> Sticky and not fibrous<\/span><\/p>\n

Colour: <\/b>Red-orange<\/span><\/p>\n

10.\u00a0 \u00a0Black Pearl<\/span><\/h3>\n
\"\"
Credit: @durianhunter631<\/a> via Instagram<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Identified by pale bijou seeds, the Black Pearl is one of the rarest durians on the market, so expect prices to be steeper than usual. But the price tag justifies the exquisite taste, according to fans of the fruit. Heavy in bitterness with a clear tinge of sweetness undercutting the aftertaste.<\/p>\n

Flavour:<\/strong> Bitter with a subtle sweetness<\/p>\n

Texture: <\/strong>Soft<\/p>\n

Colour:<\/strong> Pale yellow-white<\/p>\n

11.\u00a0 \u00a0Tupai King<\/span><\/h3>\n
\"\"
Credit: @a4_durian<\/a> via Instagram<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

There’s a new king challenging the crown that Musang King presides: Tupai King. Also recognised as D214, the Tupai King hails from Penang and has commanded a cult following since its discovery about two decades ago. The flavour is said to be boozy and rich without even an ounce of bitterness.<\/p>\n

Flavour: <\/strong>Rich and sweet<\/p>\n

Texture: <\/strong>Slightly fibrous<\/p>\n

Colour: <\/strong>Bright yellow<\/p>\n

12.\u00a0 \u00a0D17\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n
\"D17
Credit: Gonzales Garden<\/a> on Shopee<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Relatively smaller in stature compared to its siblings, the D17’s shell is distinguished by pyramid-like thorns. The insides match the exterior as D17 fruits are generally smaller too, but certainly not lacking in flavour. Tasting notes of coffee<\/a> and bitterness come to mind while the texture leans towards a wet, almost yoghurt<\/a>-like body.<\/p>\n

Flavour: <\/strong>Bitter-sweet<\/p>\n

Texture: <\/strong>Wet with minimal fibre<\/p>\n

Colour:<\/strong> Pale white<\/p>\n

13.\u00a0 \u00a0Green Skin<\/span><\/h3>\n
\"Green
Credit: Gonzales Garden<\/a> on Shopee<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Also known as Green Shell, the Green Skin durian, found in parts of Johor like Muar and Segamat, is a rare and highly valued breed known for its notable sweetness and rich, creamy texture. The dry and creamy texture, plus the unique flavour profile with a hint of alcoholic taste makes it a must-try for every durian lover.<\/p>\n

Flavour: <\/strong>Mild and less pungent, often sweeter and less bitter<\/p>\n

Texture: <\/strong>Creamy and slightly fibrous<\/p>\n

Colour:<\/strong> Pale yellow<\/p>\n

14.\u00a0 \u00a0Durian Kampung<\/span><\/h3>\n
\"Durian
Credit: Durian Boundry<\/a> via Facebook<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Durian Kampung, often referred to as village durian, encompasses a variety of traditional, wild-grown durians found in rural areas across Malaysia. Unlike cultivated types, these durians are not selectively bred, resulting in diverse flavours and textures. Typically, Durian Kampung has a mix of sweet and bitter notes, with creamy yet sometimes fibrous flesh. Sizes and shapes vary significantly, reflecting their natural, unselected origins. This durian is less consistent in quality but offers a unique, authentic taste experience.<\/p>\n

Flavour: <\/strong>Can range from sweet to bitter, often less consistent<\/p>\n

Texture: <\/strong>Creamy and slightly fibrous<\/p>\n

Colour:<\/strong> Can range from pale yellow to deep yellow, and sometimes creamy white<\/p>\n

15.\u00a0 \u00a0Durian Jantung<\/span><\/h3>\n
\"Durian
Credit: Dunia Maya<\/a> via Facebook<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Durian Jantung, named for its heart-like shape, is a distinctive variety of durian known for its large size and creamy, pale yellow flesh. This durian is prized for its sweet and mildly bitter flavour, offering a rich, satisfying taste. The flesh is notably smooth and less fibrous, making it a favourite among durian enthusiasts.<\/p>\n

Flavour: <\/strong>Sweet and mildly bitter<\/p>\n

Texture: <\/strong>Smooth and creamy with minimal fibrousness<\/p>\n

Colour:<\/strong> Pale yellow<\/p>\n

16.\u00a0 \u00a0Durian “Mardi Super” MS88<\/span><\/h3>\n
\"Durian
Credit: SALSHA NURSERY<\/a> on Shopee<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The MS88, also known as MDUR 88 (D190), is a premium durian variety developed by Malaysia\u2019s MARDI through over 30 years of research. A hybrid between D24 and D10, it features thick, creamy flesh with a rich golden-yellow hue. The texture is smooth, custard-like, and slightly sticky, offering a balanced flavour that\u2019s sweet with a subtle bitter note. One of MS88\u2019s unique traits is its ability to stay intact longer after falling, making it ideal for storage and export. It\u2019s now increasingly cultivated in Johor, Pahang, and Perak due to strong local and international demand.<\/p>\n

Flavour: <\/strong>Sweet and creamy with a mild, balanced bitterness<\/p>\n

Texture: <\/strong>Smooth, thick, custard-like, and slightly sticky<\/p>\n

Colour: <\/strong>Rich golden-yellow flesh<\/p>\n

17.\u00a0 \u00a0Durian J Sparrow (D216)<\/span><\/h3>\n
\"Durian
Credit: One Day One Durian<\/a> via Facebook<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Durian J Sparrow (D216) is a relatively new and rare durian variety originating from Kedah, Malaysia. It stands out with its round shape, short stem, and distinctive purplish thorns, a unique feature not commonly found in other cultivars. The flesh is deep yellow, with a rich, creamy, and smooth texture. Its flavour profile is intensely sweet with a hint of mild bitterness, offering a well-balanced, satisfying taste. With a high sugar content, J Sparrow has quickly become a favourite among durian connoisseurs seeking a premium, indulgent experience.<\/p>\n

Flavour: <\/strong>Intensely sweet with a mild, lingering bitterness for a balanced, satisfying taste<\/p>\n

Texture: <\/strong>Rich, creamy, smooth, and velvety<\/p>\n

Colour: <\/strong>Deep, vibrant yellow<\/p>\n

Useful Tips On How To Choose The Best Durian<\/span><\/h2>\n
\"\"
Credit: Tom Fisk <\/span><\/a>via <\/span>Pexels<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Normally, you should leave it to the vendors to choose your durians. That said, there are unscrupulous sellers who may want to shortchange you for a quick buck. So, it\u2019s advisable that you keep going back to your preferred durian seller if you find them to be trustworthy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

However, there may be times when you have to do the choosing yourself. Here are a few things to take note of:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n