The demand for durian in many countries continues to skyrocket is a great export opportunity for Southeast Asian countries, including Vietnam. Two varieties of durian commonly grown in Vietnam are Ri6 durian and Monthong durian.
These two durian kinds are the most often purchased in the Vietnamese fruit market. They all share characteristics like tiny seeds, thick, golden pulp, and attractive fragrances. To be able to select the appropriate durian for your needs, you should be able to tell these two varieties apart.
- Growing area
IMAGES MONTHONG (DONA) RI6 IMAGES 
Origin: from Thailand
First successfully planted in Vinh Long and then spread out to other provinces (Cai Mon, Ben Tre)
Origin: from Campuchia
Mostly planted in Mekong River Delta and the Southeast of Vietnam
- Appearance
IMAGES MONTHONG, DONA RI6 IMAGES 
Ovoid shape (big top and taper to the bottom)
Small, thick and sharp spikes
The flesh segments are distinguished by the line between the segments
Yellow green shell
Thin shell
Round or Rhombus shape
Large and sparse spikes, big flesh segments
Fresh green shell (sometimes brownish).
Thick shell
- Flavor
IMAGES MONTHONG, DONA RI6 IMAGES 
Thick rice, the percentage of fruit pulp is up to 40%
The fruit flesh is dry and doesn’t stick to hands
Lighter aroma and very fatty sweet taste
Strong aroma
Thick yellow rice
Strong sweet taste but a moderate fatty flavor
- Flesh color
IMAGES MONTHONG, DONA RI6 IMAGES 
Light yellow pulps and milder aroma
Suitable for export, as foreigners aren’t used to the strong durian scent
Deeper yellow pulp and strong aroma
Popular in the domestic market
Most Vietnamese people love the rich flavor of durian more, so Ri6 is often used for dessert. And Thai durian with thick rice, whose sweet taste is often used to make cakes, ice cream, or tea to add rich sweetness to the dish.
For those who adore this fruit, the aroma of the fruit and the golden, luscious durian segments make it impossible to resist. With the information provided above, you should now be able to pick a kind that you enjoy and that serves each of your needs. What are you waiting for without buying a durian to entertain the whole family?
