Mangifera indica 'Shelly' (Shelly 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 'Shelly' (Shelly Mango) is a modern hybrid between 'Tommy Atkins' and 'Keitt', developed for outstanding flavor and reliable production in warm climates. The fruit is medium to large, oval, and smooth-skinned, turning bright orange-yellow with a deep red blush when ripe. The golden-orange flesh is completely fiberless, rich, and juicy, with a distinctive tropical sweetness and light floral undertone. The flavor is refined and dessert-like, free from turpentine notes. The tree grows moderately, forming a well-branched, rounded canopy and begins producing early, often yielding two crops in warm regions - one in winter and another in summer.

'Shelly' adapts well to tropical and coastal subtropical regions and shows good resistance to common mango diseases. It performs best in full sun and well-drained soil with moderate watering and regular feeding. Productive, attractive, and reliable, this variety is ideal for both home gardens and small orchards seeking premium-quality fruit. Trees thrive in USDA Zones 10-11 and need protection from frost, with minimum tolerance down to about 30F.