Coconut Cream (mango) facts for kids

The Coconut Cream' mango is a special type of mango that was first grown in south Florida, USA. It's known for its unique taste, which reminds many people of coconut! This delicious fruit is a favorite among mango lovers because of its creamy texture and sweet flavor.

What is the 'Coconut Cream' Mango?

The 'Coconut Cream' mango is a specific cultivar of mango. A cultivar is like a special variety of a plant that has been developed by people. Think of it like different types of apples, such as Gala or Honeycrisp – they are all apples, but they have unique features. The 'Coconut Cream' mango stands out because of its amazing flavor and smooth flesh.

Where Did It Come From?

This mango was created by a plant breeder named Walter Zill. He lived in a sunny place called Boynton Beach, Florida. Walter Zill was famous for developing many new and exciting mango varieties. He worked hard to cross-pollinate different mango trees to create new types with better flavors, textures, or growing habits.

How Was It Developed?

Scientists and plant breeders like Walter Zill often create new fruit varieties by carefully choosing parent plants. They take pollen from one plant and use it to fertilize another. This is called cross-pollination. The 'Coconut Cream' mango is thought to be a hybrid, which means it's a mix of two different mango types. One of its possible parents is another well-known mango called the 'Edward' mango. By mixing the good qualities of different mangos, breeders can create new fruits that are even more delicious and special.

What Does It Taste Like?

The 'Coconut Cream' mango is famous for its incredible flavor. It has a sweet and tropical taste, but what makes it truly special is its hint of coconut. Imagine a mango that tastes like it has a little bit of coconut milk mixed in – that's the 'Coconut Cream' mango!

The Texture of the Fruit

Besides its unique flavor, the 'Coconut Cream' mango also has a wonderful texture. The inside part of the fruit, called the flesh, is very creamy and smooth. It's also "fiberless," which means it doesn't have those stringy bits that some other mango varieties can have. This makes it super enjoyable to eat, whether you're slicing it up or blending it into a smoothie.

Growing 'Coconut Cream' Mangos

Like most mangos, the 'Coconut Cream' variety grows best in warm, sunny places. Florida, where it was developed, has the perfect climate for mango trees to thrive. Mango trees need a lot of sunshine and well-drained soil to produce healthy, tasty fruit.

When Are They Ready to Eat?

Mango seasons can vary depending on where they are grown. In Florida, mango trees usually produce fruit during the warmer months, typically from late spring through summer. When a 'Coconut Cream' mango is ripe, it will often have a lovely color and a soft feel when you gently squeeze it.

Why Are Cultivars Important?

Creating new cultivars like the 'Coconut Cream' mango is very important for agriculture and for us! It helps to:

• Offer Variety: Gives us more choices of fruits to enjoy.
• Improve Qualities: Breeders can create fruits that taste better, are easier to grow, or resist diseases.
• Support Farmers: New varieties can help farmers grow more successful crops.

The 'Coconut Cream' mango is a great example of how plant breeding can bring new and exciting flavors to our tables!