Mangifera indica 'Haden' (Haden 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 'Haden' (Haden Mango) is the historic Florida variety from which most modern mango cultivars originated. Selected in the early 1900s, it became famous for its vivid color, excellent flavor, and reliable production. The medium to large fruits are round-ovate with smooth yellow skin heavily blushed in red and dotted with tiny white lenticels. The orange flesh is juicy, aromatic, and slightly fibrous, with a classic rich mango flavor that set the standard for later hybrids. The tree is large and vigorous with an upright canopy and heavy branching.

'Haden' thrives in tropical and coastal subtropical regions and fruits mainly from May to July. Although newer varieties have surpassed it in disease resistance, it remains a beloved heirloom for its flavor and beauty. Trees thrive in USDA Zones 10-11 and need protection from frost, with minimum tolerance down to about 30F.