Product Name: Marian Plum (Maprang / Plum Mango)
Description:
Marian Plum, botanically known as Bouea macrophylla, is a rare and exotic tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia. Despite its Chinese name “枇杷芒” (Loquat Mango), it is neither a loquat nor a mango in the botanical sense — it belongs to the Anacardiaceae family (the same family as mango and cashew) but in the distinct genus Bouea . In Thailand, it is widely known as Maprang or Mayong Chit, and it has become a seasonal delicacy prized for its unique flavor, edible skin, and striking purple seed.
A Fruit That Defies Categorization:
Marian Plum is instantly recognizable by its loquat-like size and mango-like appearance. The fruit is small and oval, typically measuring 4–8 cm in length, with a thin, smooth skin that turns golden-yellow when ripe. One of its most distinctive features is that the entire fruit — skin included — is edible, making it exceptionally convenient to enjoy straight from the market .
Flavor & Texture:
The flesh of Marian Plum is juicy, tender, and aromatic, with a flavor that has been described as a harmonious blend of mango sweetness, citrus freshness, and hints of peach and plum . Sweet varieties like Mayong Chit offer a delightful contrast between the slightly tart skin and the sweet, smooth flesh, while premium Sweet Maprang cultivars are sweet throughout. The flesh surrounds a single flat seed with a striking pink-purple cotyledon that makes the cut fruit visually stunning .
Key Commercial Advantages:
Edible Skin – Convenient to eat without peeling, a unique selling point
Unique Flavor Profile – A complex blend of mango, citrus, and stone fruit notes
Visually Striking – Golden-orange flesh contrasts with the purple seed, highly photogenic
Seasonal Exclusivity – Short harvest window from March to May, creating high demand
Premium Market Positioning – A rare, high-value fruit for specialty and gift channels
Important Notes for Consumers:
Large Seed, Limited Flesh: The seed is relatively large, so the edible portion per fruit is modest. It is best enjoyed as a premium seasonal treat rather than a volume fruit .
Variety Matters: Sweetness varies significantly by variety. Sweet Maprang and Mayong Chit are the preferred dessert types, while sour varieties are typically used for cooking or dipping sauces.