Cheruku Rasalu Mango Live Plant

Cheruku Rasalu Mango Live Plant (Mangifera indica)

The Cheruku Rasalu Mango, also known as Cheruku Rasam, is a celebrated mango variety from Andhra Pradesh, India. The name itself is a testament to its qualities—“Cheruku” means sugarcane and “Rasalu” refers to its juiciness. Renowned for its unparalleled sweetness and luscious pulp, this mango is a must-try for every mango enthusiast. Its distinct flavor, cultural significance, and health benefits make it an irreplaceable treasure in the world of fruits.

Tree and Fruit Characteristics

Tree Attributes:

• Appearance: A medium-sized, evergreen tree with a spreading canopy and glossy leaves that add aesthetic value to gardens and orchards.
• Growth Habit: Moderate growth rate; ideal for tropical and subtropical climates.
• Climate Adaptability: Thrives in hot and humid conditions, especially in regions with distinct summer seasons.

Fruit Attributes:

• Size and Shape: Medium to large fruits, oval to oblong in shape.
• Skin: Thin and smooth, with a golden-yellow hue when ripe.
• Flesh: Vibrant orange, juicy, and almost fiberless, ensuring a smooth texture.
• Taste: Incredibly sweet with a honey-like aftertaste, making it one of the sweetest mango varieties available.
• Aroma: Rich, fruity fragrance that captivates mango lovers.

Nutritional Value and Health Benefits

Nutritional Profile (Per 100 grams):

• Calories: ~60 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 15 grams (natural sugars)
• Fiber: 1.6 grams
• Vitamin C: Enhances immunity and skin health.
• Vitamin A: Essential for good vision and skin.
• Potassium: Maintains electrolyte balance and supports heart health.
• Magnesium: Helps in muscle relaxation and nerve function.
• Natural Sugars: Provide instant energy.

Health Benefits:

1. Boosts Immunity: High in Vitamin C, it strengthens the body’s defense mechanisms.
2. Promotes Digestion: Enzymes like amylase and natural fiber aid in breaking down food efficiently.
3. Improves Eye Health: Packed with Vitamin A, it prevents night blindness and enhances vision.
4. Rejuvenates Skin: Antioxidants and essential vitamins give the skin a natural glow and combat aging.
5. Supports Heart Health: Potassium helps regulate blood pressure and prevents cardiovascular diseases.
6. Natural Energy Booster: Ideal for athletes and individuals with active lifestyles, thanks to its natural sugars.

Culinary Taste and Uses

Taste Profile:

• Sweetness: Exceptionally sweet, reminiscent of sugarcane juice.
• Texture: Soft and fiberless, with a velvety consistency.
• Aroma: Tropical and intoxicating, making it irresistible.

Culinary Applications:

1. Juices:
   • The mango is primarily enjoyed as a juice, extracted by hand or blended for maximum flavor.
   • A refreshing drink during summer, it can be served chilled or as a base for cocktails.
2. Milkshakes:
   • Blended with milk, it creates a creamy, flavorful milkshake popular among all age groups.
3. Desserts:
   • Perfect for mango puddings, sorbets, and ice creams.
   • Used as a topping for cakes, pancakes, and waffles.
4. Traditional Preparations:
   • Mango pulp is used in making aamras, a traditional Indian dish served with flatbreads.
5. Canning and Preserves:
   • The pulp can be canned or used to make jams and jellies for long-term use.

Cultivation and Maintenance

Ideal Growing Conditions:

• Climate: Thrives in tropical and subtropical regions with hot summers and mild winters.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained sandy or loamy soils with a neutral pH.
• Sunlight: Requires full sunlight for optimal growth and fruiting.

Planting and Maintenance:

1. Watering:
   • Needs regular watering during the first year of growth.
   • Once established, water only during dry periods or flowering seasons.
2. Fertilization:
   • Use organic compost and fertilizers rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
   • Fertilize during the flowering and fruiting stages for better yield.
3. Pruning:
   • Remove dead branches and shape the tree annually for better air circulation and sunlight exposure.
4. Pest and Disease Management:
   • Protect against common mango pests like mealybugs and aphids.
   • Use neem oil or organic pesticides as preventive measures.

Blooming and Fruiting:

• Time to Fruiting: Grafted Cheruku Rasalu mango trees begin producing fruits within 1-3 years.
• Harvest Season: Typically harvested in late spring to early summer.

Preservation and Storage

1. Fresh Storage:
   • Store ripe mangoes at room temperature for up to 5-7 days.
   • Refrigerate to extend shelf life to two weeks.
2. Freezing:
   • Peel, slice, and freeze the pulp for smoothies and desserts.
3. Canning:
   • Process mango pulp into jars for year-round use.
4. Drying:
   • Dehydrate mango slices to make mango chips or powder for later use.

Cultural and Traditional Significance

1. Regional Heritage:
   • A prized variety in Andhra Pradesh, often gifted during festivals and celebrations.
2. Rituals and Offerings:
   • Cheruku Rasalu mangoes are used as offerings in temples and religious ceremonies.
3. Symbol of Summer:
   • Represents the joy and abundance of the mango season in India.

Ecological Benefits

• Pollinator Attraction: Mango blossoms attract bees and butterflies, promoting biodiversity.
• Shade Provider: The tree offers shade, making it a valuable addition to home gardens.
• Carbon Sequestration: Helps reduce carbon footprint and purifies the air.

How Cheruku Rasalu Mango Enhances Your Life

1. Health Benefits: Provides essential nutrients to boost immunity and overall health.
2. Culinary Delight: A versatile fruit that elevates your meals and beverages.
3. Cultural Connection: Brings you closer to India’s rich mango-growing traditions.
4. Aesthetic Appeal: Beautifies your garden with its vibrant fruits and dense foliage.
5. Sustainable Living: Supports the environment by enhancing biodiversity and sequestering carbon.

Conclusion

The Cheruku Rasalu Mango is not just a fruit—it’s an experience of sweetness, culture, and health. From its luscious juices to its rich heritage, it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re planting it for its ecological benefits or savoring its irresistible taste, this mango variety is a treasure to cherish. Add a Cheruku Rasalu mango tree to your garden today and enjoy the unparalleled joy it brings to your life.