A new variety of imported mango is gaining popularity in the mango capital of Bangladesh, Chapainawabganj. The exotic fruit winning admirers everywhere is known as banana mango.
Originating from Thailand where it is the most popular variety of mango, the fruit is also being commercially grown in many other countries owing to its export value.
The native name of the mango is Nam Doc Mai but Bangladeshis call it the banana mango for its size and banana-like shape, said scientists at Chapainawabganj Horticulture Centre.
Akbar Hossain, a local businessman of Bulonpur in sadar upazila, made one such orchard and planted around 350 banana mango trees.
A midseason variety, the ripening time for these mangos is the month of July. The skin of the variety starts off yellow and steadily takes on a golden-yellow hue when ripened. The flesh of the fruit is known for having very little fibre, a pleasant aroma and very sweet taste, almost like the langra mangoes grown in the region.
