Manilita facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mangifera 'Manilita' |
|
|---|---|
| Genus | Mangifera |
| Cultivar | 'Manilita' |
| Origin | Mexico |
The Manilita mango is a special type of mango that first grew in Mexico. It's known for its sweet taste and small tree size, making it a great choice for growing at home.
Where Manilita Mangos Came From
The Manilita mango started on the Pacific coast of southern Mexico. Its story is linked to a mango variety from the Philippines, specifically from Manila. That's why it's called "Manilita," which means "little Manila mango"!
This connection happened a long time ago, between 1565 and 1815, because of something called the Galleon Trade. This was when large Spanish ships, called galleons, sailed regularly between Manila in the Philippines and Acapulco in Mexico. They carried goods, and probably mangoes too, across the Pacific Ocean.
Later, the Manilita mango was brought to the United States. People there really liked it, especially for growing in their own yards. This is because the tree stays small, and its fruit has a nice color. In 2010, the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Miami, Florida even featured it as a top choice at their International Mango Festival. They really liked its good qualities!
You can also find a Manilita tree growing at the USDA's special collection of mango plants in Miami, Florida. This collection helps keep different types of mangoes safe for the future.
What Manilita Mangos Are Like
Manilita mangoes are usually less than a pound (about 450 grams) when they are ready to eat. They have a long shape, similar to other mangoes that come from Southeast Asia.
When the fruit is ripe, its skin turns a pretty pastel red color. Inside, the flesh is very sweet and doesn't have any stringy fibers, which makes it super smooth to eat. In places like Florida, these mangoes ripen early in the season.
The trees themselves are quite small. You can easily keep them at a height of about 7 feet (around 2 meters). Because they don't grow very big, Manilita mango trees are sometimes called "condo mangoes." This means they are perfect for smaller spaces, even if you live in an apartment or condo!
