Little Red Durian (Xiao Hong)

Also known as: Xiao Hong (小红), Little Red One

Khoon Poh's Easygoing Offspring

Little Red is one of Penang's best-kept secrets — a durian with real pedigree that flies under the radar compared to its famous parent. Think of it as Khoon Poh's more relaxed, approachable sibling: same family lineage, gentler personality.

Origin

Little Red grew from a seed planted by a grandson of Liew Kun Poh — the same grower behind the celebrated Khoon Poh (Ang Bak) variety — near the family home in Sungai Pinang, Balik Pulau. Rather than growing into another Khoon Poh tree, the seedling produced something distinctly its own, which the family named Little Red for its flesh colour. The variety went on to win a durian competition in 1993, and the original tree — now around 50 years old — is still bearing fruit on the family's Khoon Poh farm today.

Unlike many of Penang's named varieties, Little Red has never been formally registered with Malaysia's Department of Agriculture, but its distinctive character and family pedigree have made it well known among Penang durian circles regardless.

What It Looks Like

The husk is a brighter green than Khoon Poh's, with a shape that's oval and pleasantly irregular, and thorns that are gentler and less sharp. The skin is thicker and tougher than its parent's, which makes it easier to handle. Occasionally you'll spot a red line running through the core, similar to what's seen in Tekka. Seeds tend to be small and flat.

Aroma & Flavour

Little Red carries a light, floral aroma — much softer and less assertive than Khoon Poh's heavy, honeyed intensity. The taste follows the same gentler theme: a classic bittersweet profile with a touch of sourness, though most tasters find it leans more sweet than bitter. It's a milder, more balanced experience overall, without Khoon Poh's bold complexity.

Texture

Expect soft, creamy, almost custard-like flesh in a rich orangey-red to rusty gold colour — wet and yielding enough that it's best enjoyed with a spoon (or embracing a bit of mess). The flesh is thick relative to the small seeds, so you get a satisfying amount per pod.

Season

Little Red is an early-season durian, generally appearing in markets from May, ahead of the main June–August rush.

Why Try It

Little Red is a great pick for anyone easing into durian, or for Khoon Poh fans who want something a little softer on a given day. It carries real family pedigree without demanding the same commitment as its bolder sibling — approachable, satisfying, and easy to enjoy.