The Durian is an evergreen tree that can reach significant heights (some species grow up to 40 metres), with a broad canopy made up of long, oblong leaves. It has huge, beautiful white flowers. They give off a pungent aroma, described as being like sour milk. And it’s the smell that has given its edible, variously appreciated fruit its unfortunate reputation. Huge in size (they can weigh up to 3 kg), the fruits are covered in a thick, spiny husk; their yellow flesh has such an intense aroma that Durians are banned from public transport and many hotels in South-East Asia and beyond.

There are hundreds of varieties of Durian, the result of many years of hybrid farming, but not all of them have such pungent fruit. However, prejudice surrounding the smell of the Durian fruit is deep-rooted. The invitation is for people to overcome their prejudices and try this highly unusual fruit if they ever have the chance.