Tommy Atkins (mango) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mangifera 'Tommy Atkins' |
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| Genus | Mangifera |
| Species | Mangifera indica |
| Hybrid parentage | 'Haden' × unknown |
| Cultivar | 'Tommy Atkins' |
| Breeder | Thomas H. Atkins of Broward County, Florida |
| Origin | Florida, USA |
The Tommy Atkins mango is a special type of mango. It might not be the sweetest or most flavorful mango. However, it is very popular because it lasts a long time. It also handles being moved and shipped without getting easily bruised.
This makes it the main mango sold in many countries. About 80% of mangoes sold in the United Kingdom and United States are 'Tommy Atkins'. This is true for places that import mangoes. But in France, people often prefer the 'Kent' mango. They say 'Kent' is less stringy and tastes better.
History of the Tommy Atkins Mango
The first 'Tommy Atkins' mango tree grew from a seed. This seed was from a 'Haden' mango. It was planted around 1922 by Thomas H. Atkins. His property was in Broward County, Florida.
In the 1950s, Thomas Atkins showed his mango to fruit experts. They did not think it was special for eating. They said it had too many fibers inside. But Atkins believed his mango had a lot of potential. He saw that it had a nice color. It also grew well and resisted plant diseases. Most importantly, it could be shipped easily.
Because of these good qualities, farmers started planting 'Tommy Atkins' mangoes. It became very popular for selling in stores. Soon, it was the most common mango grown in Florida. Today, it is still the most widely planted commercial mango in North and South America.
See also
In Spanish: Mango Tommy Atkins para niños
