Himiyat — Lychee-Honey Flavour
Latin name: Mangifera indica cv. 'Himiyat'
Himiyat — also known as Imam Pasand — has an unmistakable lychee-honey quality that sets it completely apart from any other variety. It was a favourite of the Nizam of Hyderabad, and once you taste it the reason is obvious.
NZ Suitability
Why it grows here: Himiyat is grown commercially in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana — warm lowland southern India. The climate logic that makes mango growing possible in those regions — warm summers, defined seasons, cooler winters — applies directly to New Zealand's northern regions.
Best NZ regions: Northland warmest spots only. Auckland and south strongly recommended to use greenhouse.
Greenhouse: Greenhouse recommended across NZ. Himiyat comes from warm lowland Andhra Pradesh and needs sustained warmth to fruit reliably.
Wind shelter: All mangoes prefer shelter from strong winds — particularly during flowering when wind causes flower drop and reduces fruit set. A sheltered north-facing position is ideal. Young trees especially benefit from wind protection while establishing.
Frost: Can handle mild occasional frost when mature. Recommend frost protection when young.
Flavour Experience
Himiyat is genuinely unlike any other mango. The lychee-honey character is pronounced and unmistakable — floral, exotic and deeply aromatic. The flesh is firm and smooth, juicy without being messy, with virtually no fibre. Sweetness is very high with minimal tang.
Health Benefits
Like all premium Indian mangoes, Himiyat is rich in vitamins C and A, potassium and antioxidants. The distinctive aroma compounds are terpenes and esters that contribute to both flavour and nutritional profile.
Fruiting in New Zealand
In a warm greenhouse, Himiyat can flower July–September and fruit January–March. Sustained warmth during the growing season is essential for fruit development.
Growing Notes from Ben
Warmth is non-negotiable. From warm lowland southern India — a greenhouse is the most reliable way to grow it in NZ.
Wind shelter essential. A greenhouse provides natural wind protection in addition to warmth.
Gallery
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Quick Planting Guide
- Location: Greenhouse strongly recommended — warmest position available
- Soil: Deep loamy, well-draining (pH 6.0–7.5)
- Water: Consistent moisture with dry-down period pre-flowering
- Feed: Balanced fertiliser; high-K when fruit is sizing
- Nitrogen: Low at all stages — none when fruiting
- Wind: Full shelter from wind — greenhouse provides this naturally
- Tipping: Tip when young to build manageable branching structure
- Harvest: Harvest when skin shows colour and slight give — aroma guides you
Common Questions
What makes Himiyat special? The lychee-honey flavour is genuinely unlike any other mango.
Does it need a greenhouse? Strongly recommended. Northland warmest spots may manage outdoors but greenhouse gives reliable results.
When will it fruit? 3–6 years from planting in good warm conditions.
Is it difficult to grow? More demanding than northern Indian varieties — needs warmth and shelter. A greenhouse makes it straightforward.
Growing Videos
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