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Orange Sherbet Mango

Orange Sherbet Mango: Tropical Citrus Flavor with a Creamy Twist

The Orange Sherbet mango is a highly sought-after premium mango variety renowned for its vibrant citrusy flavor, smooth, fiberless flesh, and refreshing, sherbet-like finish. Developed in Florida by legendary mango breeder Gary Zill, this variety has quickly earned a reputation as one of the top-tier mangoes for taste and eating quality.


Key Characteristics of Orange Sherbet Mangoes

  • Flavor Profile: Bright, citrus-forward taste reminiscent of tangerine, orange zest, and mango sorbet.

  • Texture: Fiberless, creamy flesh with a melt-in-your-mouth consistency.

  • Color: Varies from light green to golden-yellow with a slight orange blush when ripe.

  • Shape: Oval to slightly oblong, medium-sized.

  • Ripening Season: Mid to late season—typically June through July.

  • Average Weight: 0.75–1.1 lbs


Why Choose Orange Sherbet Mangoes?

  • Zesty Citrus Flavor: Uniquely tropical with a refreshing orange sherbet twist.

  • Completely Fiberless: Ideal for eating fresh, blending, or adding to gourmet dishes.

  • Exceptional Breeding: A modern cultivar from the Zill family with superior flavor genetics.

  • Perfect for Mango Connoisseurs: A standout among collectors and specialty fruit lovers.


Ideal Uses

  • Fresh eating straight from the peel

  • Tropical fruit salads or parfaits

  • Smoothies, sorbets, and mango-orange desserts

  • Gourmet pairings with cheese or seafood

This cultivar is known for turning casual fruit fans into mango enthusiasts thanks to its bright, clean, and juicy flavor that lives up to its name.


Orange Sherbet vs. Other Mango Varieties

Compared to mangoes like Kent, Carrie, or Tommy Atkins, Orange Sherbet offers:

  • A sharper citrus punch and brighter flavor

  • Zero fiber and ultra-smooth texture

  • Smaller size, but bolder taste

  • Excellent complexity with sweet-tart balance


Storage & Ripening Tips

  • Ripen at room temperature until the skin gives slightly and a citrusy aroma develops.

  • Skin may stay mostly green even when ripe—rely on scent and softness.

  • Refrigerate ripe mangoes to maintain peak flavor and texture for up to 5 days.

  • Handle gently to avoid bruising the tender flesh.


Where to Find Orange Sherbet Mangoes

These mangoes are grown in:

  • Florida (USA) – primary source and original breeding ground

  • Select tropical and subtropical home orchards

  • Specialty fruit farms and mango festivals

Due to limited commercial supply, this mango is often considered a rare and seasonal delicacy, best sourced directly from growers or local tropical fruit markets.


Conclusion

This delicious mango delivers a one-of-a-kind tropical flavor that combines the creaminess of mango with the zing of citrus. With its fiberless texture, bright taste, and gourmet appeal, it’s no surprise that this variety is considered one of the best mangoes ever developed for pure eating enjoyment.

 

Orange Sherbet Details  
Growth Habit Round, open canopy
Growth Rate Moderate to fast
Fruit Color  Vibrant yellow
Tree Size 20 – 25 ft. tall, 15 – 20 ft. wide
Fruit Season Mid-season (June-July)
Flavor Rich, very sweet flavor with a bold orange-citrus candy taste
Fruit Weight 12 – 14 oz.
Water Needs Low to regular (depending on drainage)
Light Needs Full sun
Soil Requirements Well drained
USDA Zone 10 – 11