Real Amrapali Mango Plant

Tree

• Size: The Real Amrapali Mango tree is relatively smaller compared to other mango varieties, reaching a height of 6–8 meters.
• Appearance: The tree has a compact, dense canopy with dark green, glossy leaves that form a lush, vibrant crown.
• Growth Habit: This variety is semi-dwarf, making it suitable for smaller orchards or gardens. It is also easier to harvest due to its smaller size.
• Resilience: Amrapali mango trees are hardy and can tolerate some degree of drought. However, they require proper care and attention to thrive in tropical and subtropical climates.

Flowers

• Appearance: The flowers of the Amrapali mango are small, pale yellow, and arranged in clusters.
• Pollination: Mangoes are generally pollinated by insects, with bees being the most significant pollinators. However, in certain conditions, manual pollination may be necessary to ensure optimal fruiting.

Fruit

• Appearance:
  • The fruit of the Amrapali mango is medium to small-sized, usually weighing around 200–300 grams.
  • It has a smooth, yellow-orange skin when ripe, often with a reddish blush at the top.
• Taste:
  • Amrapali mangoes are known for their exceptional sweetness, with a hint of tartness, offering a rich, aromatic flavor that is often described as a perfect balance between sugar and acidity.
  • The flesh is juicy and smooth, with minimal fiber, making it ideal for consumption in various forms.
• Shape: The mango has an oval to slightly elongated shape, with a smooth skin that is easy to peel.
• Ripening: The mango ripens to a bright yellow-orange color and is harvested in the summer months, typically between May and June.

Growth and Cultivation in India

• Climate:
  • The Real Amrapali Mango plant thrives in tropical and subtropical climates with warm temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C.
  • It requires a distinct dry season for flowering and fruiting, which is why it flourishes in regions with clear seasonal changes, such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and parts of Maharashtra.
• Soil:
  • Prefers well-drained, loamy or sandy soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
  • The soil should be rich in organic matter to support healthy growth and fruit production.
• Propagation:
  • Amrapali mangoes are typically propagated through grafting, which helps maintain consistency in the quality of the fruit.
  • Seed propagation is possible but less common, as it may not produce fruit with the same desirable characteristics as grafted plants.
• Watering and Irrigation:
  • While Amrapali mango trees are relatively drought-tolerant, regular irrigation is essential, especially during the flowering and fruiting stages.
  • Drip irrigation is commonly used in commercial mango orchards for efficient water use.
• Pruning:
  • Pruning is essential to maintain the shape and health of the tree, allowing better airflow and sunlight penetration.
  • Proper pruning also ensures that the tree does not become overcrowded, which can reduce fruit quality.

Uses and Benefits in India

• Nutritional Value:
  • Amrapali mangoes are rich in vitamins like vitamin C and A, essential minerals such as potassium, and dietary fiber.
  • They are also high in antioxidants, which can boost immunity and promote healthy skin.
  • The high fiber content aids digestion and helps in maintaining gut health.
• Culinary Uses:
  • Fresh Consumption: The mango is eaten fresh, often sliced and served as a snack or dessert.
  • Juices & Smoothies: The smooth texture and sweet flavor make it a perfect ingredient for juices, smoothies, and milkshakes.
  • Desserts: Amrapali mangoes are used in a variety of Indian sweets such as aam ras, mango ice cream, and mango-based puddings.
  • Pickles: Slightly under-ripe mangoes can be used to prepare tangy and spicy mango pickles, which are a staple in Indian cuisine.
• Medicinal Properties:
  • Known for their high vitamin C content, Amrapali mangoes help strengthen the immune system.
  • The fruit is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, promote digestion, and improve skin health due to its rich antioxidant profile.
• Economic Importance:
  • Amrapali mangoes are a major commercial variety, contributing significantly to India’s mango exports.
  • The variety is widely appreciated both in domestic and international markets, especially in Europe and the Middle East, due to its superior taste and texture.

Pests and Diseases

• Common Pests:
  • Mango Weevil: A pest that attacks the fruit and can cause rot if not managed.
  • Mango Hopper: A pest that affects the flowering and fruit-setting stages, leading to lower yields.
• Diseases:
  • Powdery Mildew: A fungal infection that affects the leaves and stems.
  • Anthracnose: A fungal disease that causes spots and lesions on the fruit.
• Management: Regular pest control, proper orchard hygiene, and the use of organic or chemical pesticides can help manage these issues. Early disease detection and treatment can ensure healthy growth and high fruit yield.

Varieties and Similar Mangoes

• Kesar Mango: Known for its rich, creamy texture and sweet flavor, similar to the Amrapali but with a slightly smaller size.
• Alphonso Mango: While larger and more widely known, the Alphonso is often compared to the Amrapali for its smooth texture and sweet, tangy flavor.
• Langra Mango: Known for its unique green skin and distinct taste, Langra mangoes are often compared to Amrapali for their sweetness.

The Real Amrapali Mango plant is a remarkable variety due to its exquisite flavor, consistency in fruiting, and relatively compact size. It is a great choice for both home gardens and commercial orchards, making it one of the most prized mango varieties in India.