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The Durian (Durio zibethinus) belongs to the family Bombacaceae. It is a tall evergreen tree that is native to the Malay Peninsula in Southeast Asia. It grows 20 to 30 m tall with oblong, leathery leaves that grow in alternate arrangements. It produces short inflorescences from the trunk and large branches, and produces several white to pale yellow five-petaled flowers. The fruit is spherical to ovoid and matures about three months after pollination. The rind is thick, with a hard pyramidal surface and a five-chambered interior. The pulp is creamy and has a strong sweet taste, making it edible. Because of its distinctive aroma, it is prohibited to carry on board airplanes.
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