The rambutan ( pronounced / ræ mÈ bu� tYn/ ; taxonomic name: Nephelium lappaceum) is a medium-sized tropical tree in the family Sapindaceae, and the fruit of this tree. The name rambutan is derived from the Malay word rambut, which literally means hairy caused by the ' hair' that covers this fruit, There is a second species regularly for sale at Malay markets which is known as " wild" rambutan. It is a little smaller than the usual red variety and is colored yellow. The outer skin is peeled exposing the fleshy fruit inside which is then eaten. It is sweet, sour and slightly grape like and gummy to the taste.