Carla Mango: Florida’s Modern Classic

Released in 2016, the Carla mango emerges from Gary Zill’s breeding program as a testament to modern mango innovation.

Breeding Origins

Developed from seedling C-12, this progeny of ‘Zill-80’ mango (likely pollinated by ‘Gary’) represents careful selection for optimal traits.

Physical Attributes

Key characteristics include:

• Medium size (1-2 pounds)
• Smooth, yellow skin
• Fiberless, yellow flesh
• Complex flavor profile
• Monoembryonic seed

Growing Success

The variety excels with:

• Vigorous, upright growth
• Open canopy structure
• Mid-to-late season maturity (July-August)
• Strong disease resistance
• Adaptability to subtropical climates

Flavor Excellence

Carla offers:

• Classic-acidic profile
• Balanced sweetness
• Subtle tartness
• Complex taste notes
• Similarity to ‘Fruit Punch’ and ’36-8′ siblings

Commercial Value

Notable advantages:

• Superior late-season alternative to ‘Kent’
• Consistent productivity
• Extended harvest season
• Robust disease resistance
• Commercial orchard potential

Innovation Legacy

The Carla mango exemplifies Florida’s breeding achievements, offering improved disease resistance and superior flavor while extending the mango season. Its success demonstrates the value of dedicated breeding programs in advancing fruit quality.

Mango Characteristics

• Taste: Classic
• Sweetness: Good
• Sourness: Mild
• Fiber: None
• Fruit Size: Medium
• Eaten Green: No
• Production: Good
• Season: Mid to Late
• Growth Habit: Vigorous
• Tree Size: Large
• Disease Resistance: Good
• Seed Type: Monoembryonic