1. ITS NAME IS A MYSTERY (SORT OF)
"Musang" in Malay refers to the Asian palm civet. One popular theory is that the name "Musang King" (or "Mao Shan Wang" in Chinese, meaning "Cat Mountain King") comes from the belief that civet cats are very selective and only choose the best durians to eat, with Musang King being their top pick! Another theory links "Musang" to Gua Musang, a district in Kelantan, Malaysia, believed to be its origin.
The Musang King is officially known by its cultivar ID, D197. It was originally called "Raja Kunyit," meaning "Turmeric King," due to its distinctive deep yellow, turmeric-colored flesh.
3. FIRST GENOME SEQUENCED*
In 2017, Musang King made history by becoming the first durian variety to have its entire genome sequenced. This scientific breakthrough helped researchers understand the genetic reasons behind its famously strong smell and unique taste.
4. THE "HERMES OF DURIAN"
In China, Musang King has earned the nickname "Hermes of durian" due to its premium price and luxurious status.
5. MORE PULP, SMALLER SEEDS
One of the reasons Musang King is so beloved is its relatively smaller seeds, which means more of that creamy, delicious flesh per fruit!
*Source: Malaysiakini News Article, “Scientists uncover Musang King's pungent secrets in genetic study”,
published Oct 10, 2017 on www.malaysiakini.com/news/397830