Langra — The Green Mango That Stays Green
Latin name: Mangifera indica cv. 'Langra'
Langra is completely different from every other mango on this list. It stays green when fully ripe — the skin seldom turns yellow when ripe on the tree. The flavour is herbal, resinous and tangy with a complexity that rewards attention. In Varanasi, where it originates, Langra is considered one of the finest mangoes grown anywhere.
NZ Suitability
Why it grows here: Langra is grown commercially in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh — and across northern Bihar. Cold-winter region with defined seasons.. 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, Auckland and Bay of Plenty in warm sheltered spots. Good cold tolerance from its Varanasi origin.
Greenhouse: A greenhouse improves results but Langra's northern India cold-winter origin makes it more adaptable for outdoor growing in northern NZ than many varieties.
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
Langra is herbal, resinous and tangy — a completely different flavour profile from the dessert mangoes. Notes of pine, green herb and resin behind the sweetness create real complexity. The tang is noticeable and pleasant, balancing the sweetness. For people who love interesting food rather than just sweet food, Langra is the one.
Health Benefits
Rich in vitamins C and A with a good antioxidant profile. The distinctive terpene compounds that create Langra's herbal, resinous character are natural plant compounds with their own nutritional interest.
Fruiting in New Zealand
Langra flowers August–October and fruits January–March in NZ. From the cold-winter region of Varanasi, it is well adapted to a seasonal climate. The green skin at harvest can be confusing — judge ripeness by slight softness and aroma rather than colour.
Growing Notes from Ben
Do not judge by colour. Langra stays green when ripe. Do not wait for a colour change. Use gentle pressure and aroma to judge harvest time.
Vigorous grower. Langra is one of the more vigorous trees on this list. Plan for regular tipping and pruning from an early age.
Wind shelter. Protect from strong winds especially during flowering August–October.
Gallery
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Quick Planting Guide
- Location: Warm, sunny, sheltered north-facing position
- Soil: Deep loamy, well-draining (pH 5.5–7.5)
- Water: Reduce pre-bloom to trigger flowering; consistent when fruiting
- Feed: Balanced fertiliser; high-K when fruit is sizing
- Nitrogen: Low at all stages — none when fruiting
- Wind: Shelter from strong winds especially during flowering
- Pruning: Regular tipping essential — vigorous grower
- Harvest: Judge by softness and aroma NOT colour — it stays green
Common Questions
Why does it stay green? Langra is genetically low in anthocyanins — the pigments that turn mango skin yellow or red. It is fully ripe when the skin is still green.
Frost tolerance? Good — from cold-winter Varanasi. Mature trees handle brief -1°C. Protect young trees.
When will it fruit? Typically 3–6 years from planting.
Is it for everyone? Langra is for people who want complexity and character rather than pure sweetness.
Growing Videos
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