About Harumanis

Basically mango, Mangifera indica, is a member of the family Anacardiaceae. Mango has become naturalized and adapted throughout the tropics and subtropics. There are over 500 classified of mango varieties, some of them have evolved and have been described throughout the world. The genus of Mangifera consists of 69 species and mostly restricted to tropical Asia. The highest variety of mango occurs in Malaysia, particularly in peninsular area and about 28 species are found in this region. Malaysia lies wholly within the tropics, which encompasses heavy precipitation, high temperatures, and high humidity, which are the favoring factors for mango plants. There are several varieties of mango grown in Malaysia; the better known cultivars are Golek (MA 162), Masmuda (MA 204), Maha 65 (MA 165), Chok Anan (MA 224), Sala and Harum Manis. 

Matured Harumanis cultivar mango

Generally, Harumanis (MA 128) is very popular because it has desirable color and sweetness and good eating quality with good aroma then other. Harumanis mangoes have a vibrant green skin with large, light-yellow dots. The fruit maintains its green coloring even when ripe and is ready to eat right off the tree. It have an overall elongated and elliptical shape, they are slightly larger than palm-size and can weigh up to one pound. The skin is thick, and tough, protecting the soft flesh within. The lemon yellow flesh has a strong, sweet aroma and flavor with a slightly bitter aftertaste. The flesh is thick and juicy and mostly fiberless. Usually it have a medium-sized stone.  Harumanis mangoes, are high in vitamins A and C and many essential nutrients and minerals. They contain potassium, iron, calcium and magnesium. It is also high in soluble fiber. Drinking the its juice is said to have a refreshing and hydrating effect on the body. However in Malaysia this mango cultivar only can grow in Perlis and fruiting season are limited which is only last for two months.

"No problem planting it anywhere. Only whether it will bear fruit or not and the fruit quality is as expected or not. It must be understood that planting Harumanis is not simple...in fact, many factors must be taken into account. One cannot plant Harumanis mango tree and expect the tree to grow and bear fruit in abundance or for lucrative returns, while caring for it can be difficult." - Assoc Prof Dr Mahmad Nor Jaafar.

Texture of Harumanis cultivar mango