Among neotropical Garcinia several species are dioecious (G. leptophylla, G. macrophylla[citation needed] and G. magnifolia), although male and female trees have often been observed to have some degree of self-fertility.

The best-known species is Garcinia mangostana, which is now cultivated throughout Southeast Asia and other tropical countries, having become established in the late 20th century.

It figures prominently in Kodava culture, and G. multiflora is used to flavour and colour the famous bún riêu soup of Vietnam, where this plant is known as hạt điều màu.

African tribes as a tonic believed to increase 'energy levels' and to possess digestive and fat-busting properties[dubious – discuss][citation needed].

As of December 2024[update], Kew's Plants of the World Online lists more than 400 accepted species,[1] which include: The genetic diversity of 22 Garcinia accessions was analyzed using peroxidase, RAPD markers, and gene sequence-specific amplification polymorphism (GSSAP).

[9] This study showed that the G. magostana accessions can be clearly distinguished by combined peroxidase, RAPD, and gene sequence-specific amplification polymorphism.