Edward

Edward was a 'Haden' seedling, and  is thought to be a cross between Haden and Philippine-Carabao by Edward Simmonds, who ran the USDA's plant introduction program in Miami in the early 20th century. In the 1920s Simmonds attempted to hybridize mangos of Indian origin with Indochinese-type mangos in an effort to create varieties with the flavor of the Indian types but with the disease resistance of Indochinese-types. One of these hybrids by Simmonds was recognized for its outstanding eating quality, and was later named and described by David Sturrock of West Palm Beach after Simmonds passed away in the 1930s. Sturrock brought the Edward mango to the attention of other growers, and propagation began in the 1940s.

 

The fruit is oval in shape, yellow in color and develops a beautiful orange and red blush with sun exposure. The flesh is fiberless, of medium firmness and has a lovely aroma and a smooth, richly sweet flavor with a small amount of acidity to balance it out. This flavor appeals to people from all around the world and makes Edward popular with almost everybody.

 

Unfortunately Edward trees developed an earned reputation for being shy bearers, and this trait limited its commercial application. In some areas though Edward trees produce well, and its now grown on some limited commercial scale in Latin America.

 

Whether they produce lightly or heavily, Edward trees tend to be consistent producers because of their ease in flowering. Our large Edward trees begin to bloom in the Fall by November, with second and third blooms generally following in the winter months. This results in an early, extended season that runs from April to July most years. They typically produce very well for us.

The trees are moderately vigorous growers, with very thick and dense canopy.

Edward is a fruit that has stood the test of time and we are proud to call it our primary mango, with many trees over 70 years old.