If you're a mango fan, you owe it to yourself to have a taste of the Edward variety of mangoes. The Edward is considered the tastiest of all of the Florida varieties. They are not grown commercially, so you have to grow your own or know someone who does.
Our Edward mango tree has set a nice crop of fruit this year for the first time. It's been a seven-year wait, but well worth it. This special cultivar was planted at the urging of our friend and tropical fruit expert, B.R. Rock, who said at the time, "If you only have room to grow one mango, it has to be an Edward."
Known for being the most delicious of the Florida mangoes, Edwards are super-smooth in texture, sweet, and flavorful. The characteristic of the Edward mango that makes it unsuitable for commercial cultivation makes it appealing for the backyard gardener: it's not prolific. One tree produces a few fruit a day for a couple of weeks and is just right for a small family and a few good friends. My neighbor's Hadens are superabundant this year, slowing traffic and attracting gleaners from miles around.
Edwards are not sold in the supermarket. If you'd like to taste one, let me know. I've been bringing in samples to share at Laser Advertising. In my photo, Edwards are the single column on the right (the rest are Hadens). Compared to the red, more round Hadens, Edwards are a bit smaller, more ovoid, and almost uniformly yellow in hue when ripe. Our tree was purchased through the Rare Fruit and Vegetable Council of Broward County. This non-profit organization is a great resource for backyard growers. Post by Tracy Datlen
Comments