Mango Udang Live Plant (Mangifera indica L)

Mango Udang Live Plant (Mangifera indica L): A Rare and Unique Mango Variety

The Mango Udang, also known as Shrimp Mango or Mangga Udang, is a distinctive variety of mango characterized by its elliptical, shiny green leaves and unique round fruits with a sweet and slightly sour flavor. This mango is not only admired for its taste but also for its early fruiting capability, as it starts producing fruit within three years, even when grown from seed.

Fruit Characteristics

1. Shape and Size:

   • The fruit is round and compact, making it easy to handle and store.

2. Skin:

   • The skin is hard and slightly rough, transitioning from green to yellow as the fruit ripens.

3. Flesh:

   • The flesh is white or yellowish, soft yet firm, and free of excessive fibers, making it enjoyable to eat.

4. Flavor:

   • Combines a sweet and slightly sour taste, striking a perfect balance that appeals to a wide range of palates.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Values

Nutritional Profile:

1. Vitamins:
   • Vitamin C: Supports immunity, promotes radiant skin, and aids in wound healing.
   • Vitamin A: Essential for vision and maintaining healthy skin.
2. Minerals:
   • Potassium: Regulates blood pressure and improves cardiovascular health.
   • Magnesium: Vital for muscle and nerve function.
3. Dietary Fiber:
   • Promotes a healthy digestive system and prevents constipation.
4. Antioxidants:
   • Help fight free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Health Benefits:

• Boosts Immunity:
  High levels of Vitamin C strengthen the immune system.
• Supports Digestive Health:
  Dietary fiber aids digestion and promotes gut health.
• Promotes Heart Health:
  Potassium and antioxidants improve cardiovascular function.
• Enhances Vision and Skin Health:
  Rich in Vitamin A and C, it keeps eyes sharp and skin glowing.
• Aids in Weight Management:
  Low in calories yet nutrient-dense, it fits well in balanced diets.

Culinary Taste and Applications

Taste Profile:

The Mango Udang offers a delightful combination of sweetness with a subtle tang. Its flesh is smooth, juicy, and refreshing, making it a perfect summer treat.

Culinary Uses:

1. Fresh Consumption:
   • Enjoyed as a standalone fruit for its refreshing taste.
2. Salads:
   • Its sweet-sour flavor adds depth to fruit and green salads.
3. Juices and Smoothies:
   • Makes delicious mango beverages that are both hydrating and nutritious.
4. Desserts:
   • Used in puddings, ice creams, and sorbets for a tropical twist.
5. Condiments:
   • Perfect for chutneys, pickles, and marinades.
6. Savory Dishes:
   • Complements grilled meats and seafood as a tangy accompaniment.

Environmental and Ecological Benefits

1. Biodiversity Support:
   • Mango trees attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies, enhancing local ecosystems.
2. Erosion Prevention:
   • The tree’s root system stabilizes soil, preventing erosion in tropical and subtropical regions.
3. Carbon Sequestration:
   • Acts as a natural carbon sink, absorbing significant amounts of carbon dioxide.

Cultivation and Maintenance of Mango Udang

Growing Conditions:

1. Climate:
   • Thrives in tropical and subtropical climates with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C.
2. Soil:
   • Prefers well-drained, loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5 to 7.5).
3. Sunlight:
   • Requires full sun exposure for at least 6-8 hours daily.

Plant Maintenance:

1. Watering:
   • Regular watering is essential during the initial growth phase, while mature trees need moderate watering. Avoid waterlogging.
2. Fertilization:
   • Organic compost and balanced fertilizers rich in potassium and phosphorus encourage healthy growth and fruiting.
3. Pruning:
   • Regular pruning improves air circulation, prevents disease, and encourages better yields.
4. Pest Management:
   • Keep an eye out for common pests like mango hoppers and mealybugs. Use organic insecticides if needed.
5. Fruit Yield:
   • Produces fruit within 3 years of planting, making it an early-fruiting variety.

Preservation and Storage

1. Harvesting:
   • Pick the fruits when their skin changes color and they emit a fruity aroma.
2. Ripening:
   • Allow them to ripen at room temperature for the best flavor.
3. Storage:
   • Store ripe fruits in the refrigerator to extend their shelf life.
4. Freezing:
   • The flesh can be frozen and used later in smoothies or desserts.

Traditions and Cultural Significance

• Symbol of Prosperity:
  Mangoes, including the Mango Udang, are often seen as symbols of abundance and wealth in tropical cultures.
• Festival Fruit:
  • Widely used during festivals and ceremonies for offerings and feasts.
• Medicinal Roots:
  • Traditional medicine systems use mango leaves and fruit for various remedies, including treating dysentery and boosting energy.

Incorporating Mango Udang into Your Life

1. Gardening Joy:
   • Growing Mango Udang trees in your garden brings the joy of nurturing nature and reaping its sweet rewards.
2. Daily Nutrition:
   • Adding Mango Udang to your diet ensures a regular intake of essential vitamins and minerals.
3. Culinary Adventures:
   • Experiment with creative recipes using its unique sweet-sour flavor.
4. Natural Wellness:
   • Embrace the medicinal properties of this mango for improved immunity and vitality.

Conclusion

The Mango Udang Live Plant is a remarkable variety of mango that stands out for its early fruiting, unique taste, and ecological benefits. Whether you grow it in your garden or savor its sweet-sour fruit, this mango offers a delightful experience for nature enthusiasts and fruit lovers alike.

At Veliyath Gardens, we provide top-quality Mango Udang plants that thrive in tropical climates, ensuring you enjoy this exceptional fruit variety for years to come. Add the Shrimp Mango to your life and experience the joy of this one-of-a-kind mango.