Durian
榴莲 · durian
Durian in October (this month)
No fresh crop this month
Not usually on shelves this month.
Malaysia
Fresh cropStored / lateNot shipping
Skip this month (1)
MY
MalaysiaPahang (Raub, Bentong), Johor, Penang
Off seasonMusang King, Black Thorn, D24, XO, Red Prawn
Not shipping now
Main season Jun–Aug, with a smaller second crop around Dec–Jan. Most fresh durian in Singapore comes from here.
How to pick at the shelf
- SmellStrong and sweet, never sour or alcoholic.
- StemMoist and fresh. A dried, dark stem means it's old.
- ThornsPress two thorns together: slight flex means ripe.
- AskGood stalls will open one so you can check the flesh.
At home
KeepEat the same day
Lasts1–2 days opened
Put opened flesh in an airtight box in the fridge, ideally double-wrapped, or everything will smell of durian.
Brand or variety on the label
Buying tips (3)
- Peak durian season in Singapore is June to August, when Malaysian supply is at its highest and prices drop.
- Outside the season, stalls sell frozen Musang King and Thai durian. These are available all year but taste different from fresh.
- Shake it gently: a slight rattle means the flesh has come away from the husk and is ripe. Fresh stems are moist, not dried out.
Common questions
- When is durian season in Singapore?
- Malaysia: Jun–Aug, Dec–Jan. Fresh-crop months by origin.
- Which country's durian is best in October?
- Durian is not usually on shelves in October.
- How do I pick a ripe durian?
- Smell: Strong and sweet, never sour or alcoholic. Stem: Moist and fresh. A dried, dark stem means it's old. Thorns: Press two thorns together: slight flex means ripe. Ask: Good stalls will open one so you can check the flesh.
- How should I store durian?
- Eat the same day. Lasts 1–2 days opened. Put opened flesh in an airtight box in the fridge, ideally double-wrapped, or everything will smell of durian.