The Miyazaki Mango plant, also known as Taiyo no Tamago (Egg of the Sun), is a premium mango variety originally from Miyazaki Prefecture in Japan. This rare mango is known for its exceptional sweetness, unique appearance, and high market value. Here are the key features of the Miyazaki Mango plant:
1. Fruit Characteristics:
- Large size: Miyazaki mangoes are larger than most other varieties, often weighing over 350 grams per fruit.
- Distinctive red color: The mango has a vibrant, deep red skin, unlike the usual yellow or green seen in most mango varieties.
- Rich sweetness: The fruit has a high sugar content, typically around 15-20 Brix, making it extremely sweet and flavorful.
- Soft, juicy flesh: The inside of the fruit is orange, with a smooth texture and little fiber.
- Oval shape: The mango has a uniform oval shape, adding to its aesthetic appeal.
2. Growth Habit:
- Medium-sized tree: Miyazaki mango trees can grow up to 15–20 feet, but with regular pruning, they can be kept smaller for ease of harvest.
- Slow-growing: This variety takes longer to mature compared to other mango trees, requiring careful cultivation.
- Productivity: Though the yield per tree may be lower than other mango varieties, the fruit’s high market value compensates for the lower volume.
3. Climate Requirements:
- Warm and tropical conditions: The plant thrives in warm, sunny climates. It is particularly well-suited to tropical and subtropical regions.
- Temperature sensitivity: It requires a minimum temperature of around 25°C for optimal growth and fruiting and should be protected from extreme cold or frost.
- Humidity: The plant prefers humid environments but should not be overwatered, as this can lead to root rot.
4. Watering and Soil:
- Well-drained soil: The plant needs rich, well-drained soil to thrive. Loamy soil with organic matter is ideal.
- Moderate watering: While it requires regular watering, the Miyazaki mango plant should not be waterlogged. Drip irrigation is often used for precision watering.
- Fertilization: High-quality organic fertilizers help maintain the plant’s health and promote better fruit production.
5. Maintenance and Care:
- Controlled environment: Miyazaki mangoes are often grown in greenhouses in Japan to control temperature, humidity, and sunlight exposure, ensuring the best fruit quality.
- Manual pollination: In some cases, hand pollination is done to improve fruit set, especially in greenhouse environments.
- Pest and disease management: The plant is susceptible to common mango pests such as fruit flies and aphids. Regular monitoring and organic pest control are essential.
6. Special Cultivation Practices:
- Netting and individual care: In high-end cultivation, each fruit is sometimes wrapped in a net to ensure uniform ripening and to prevent damage. The fruits are allowed to fall naturally into the nets once ripe.
- Sun exposure: The red color of the fruit is attributed to long exposure to sunlight during the ripening process, which enhances the visual and taste qualities of the fruit.
7. Market Value and Uses:
- Luxury fruit: Miyazaki mangoes are one of the most expensive fruits in the world, often sold for thousands of dollars per pair in Japan and other markets due to their superior quality.
- Gift item: They are often given as luxury gifts, especially in Japan, where high-quality fruits are a symbol of respect and prestige.
- Culinary uses: The mango is usually consumed fresh but can also be used in gourmet desserts and dishes.
8. Health Benefits:
- Rich in antioxidants: The fruit is packed with vitamins, especially Vitamin C and A, along with antioxidants that promote overall health.
- High in fiber: Miyazaki mangoes are rich in dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion.
- Low in fat: The fruit is low in fat, making it a healthy, delicious snack.
The Miyazaki Mango plant is a highly specialized and carefully cultivated variety known for its unmatched quality, making it a prized addition to any collection of exotic fruit plants.