Mangifera indica 'Cushman' (Cushman Mango)

Mangifera indica (Mango) is a large evergreen tree native to South Asia and among the oldest cultivated fruit trees, grown in India for over 4,000 years. In tropical climates it can reach 60-80 feet with a broad crown of glossy leaves. Small yellowish flowers appear in spring, followed by fleshy drupes known worldwide as mangoes.

Fruit shape varies from oval to kidney-shaped, with skin that may remain green or ripen to yellow, orange, or red. The flesh is juicy and aromatic, sometimes fiberless and sweet, sometimes more resinous depending on type. Mangoes are eaten fresh, dried, blended, or cooked, making them one of the most versatile tropical fruits. Some people experience irritation on the lips from the peel, so fruits are usually eaten peeled.

The tree thrives in full sun and well-drained soil in warm climates, hardy only to USDA Zones 9-11. With hundreds of named cultivars, Mangifera indica remains one of the world s most widely grown and culturally important fruit trees.

See Mango varieties.

Mangifera indica 'Cushman' (Cushman Mango) is a late-season mango cultivar that originated in Florida and is prized for its unusually large, round fruit. The tree itself has a compact, medium-sized growth habit, often reaching 12-15 feet in managed landscapes, which makes it easier to maintain than more vigorous varieties. Fruits are heavy and oval to nearly spherical, weighing up to 2-3 pounds each, with smooth yellow skin when ripe. The flesh is rich golden-yellow, fiberless, and aromatic, offering a sweet, classic mango flavor. Gardeners appreciate 'Cushman' both for the impressive size of its fruit and for its reliable production in warm climates.

'Cushman' performs best in full sun with fertile, well-drained soil and moderate watering. It flowers in spring, with fruit typically maturing later in the season compared to many other Florida cultivars. Hardy only to USDA Zone 10-11, the tree requires frost protection but can be container-grown in cooler regions and sheltered during cold spells. This combination of manageable growth, heavy yields, and high-quality fruit makes 'Cushman' a valuable choice for collectors and home orchards alike.