Mangifera indica ‘Alphonso’ is considered by many mango connoisseurs to be the world’s finest mango. Originating from India, where it is often referred to as the ‘King of Mangoes’, this cultivar is highly valued for its exceptional eating quality. The fruit is typically medium-sized (150 to 300 grams), oval, and when ripe, its smooth skin turns a gorgeous golden-yellow, often with a hint of red at the top. The most notable characteristic is the flesh: it is a deep saffron colour, incredibly rich and creamy, entirely non-fibrous, and possesses an intense, delicate tropical flavour and fragrance that melts in the mouth. While it is a seasonal, mid-season fruit, its high cost and sought-after flavour reflect its superior quality, making it a favourite for both fresh eating and use in desserts like sorbets and ice cream.
Care Tips
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Position: Requires a position in full sun (at least 6-8 hours daily) for optimal growth and fruit quality. It must be in a warm, frost-free location, ideally sheltered.
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Climate: Best suited to Tropical and Subtropical climates. It needs warm conditions and is susceptible to frost damage, especially when young. It performs best where winters are dry.
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Soil: Requires deep, fertile, well-drained soil. Good drainage is paramount, as mangoes do not tolerate ‘wet feet’ (soggy roots), particularly in winter.
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Watering: Water regularly and deeply during the main growing season (spring and summer) and when fruit is developing. Reduce watering significantly during the cool, pre-flowering winter period to encourage blooming.
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Fertilising: Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser for fruit trees in spring and early summer. Avoid fertilising in late autumn or winter.
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Pruning: Prune young trees to establish a strong, low-branching framework. Once mature, prune lightly after harvest to thin the canopy and remove dead or diseased wood.
