The rambutan is a medium-sized tropical tree in the family 'Sapindaceae'. The name also refers to the edible fruit produced by this tree. The rambutan is native to Malaysia and other regions of tropical Southeast Asia.

It is closely related to several other edible tropical fruits including the lychee, longan, and mamoncillo. The name "rambutan" is derived from the Malay word rambut meaning "hair". Similarly, in Vietnam, it is called 'chôm chôm' (meaning "messy hair").

The fruit are usually sold fresh and have a short shelf-life, and are commonly used in making jams and jellies, or canned. Evergreen rambutan trees with their abundant coloured fruit make beautiful landscape specimens.

In Thailand, rambutan trees were first planted in Surat Thani in 1926. An annual rambutan fair is held during August harvest time.

In Malaysia, rambutan flowers from March to July and again between June and November, usually in response to rain following a dry period.

Rambutan fruit contains diverse nutrients but in modest amounts, with only manganese having moderate content at 16 percent of the Daily Value per 100 g consumed.

More Info: en.wikipedia.org