Zill 80
Zill 80
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Zill-80 is believed to be a Kent seedling selected by the Zill family in Boynton Beach, Florida, and takes its name from the year it first fruited—1980. It was propagated by the Zill nursery for a short period during the 1980s before falling out of commercial favor. Its long-term importance became clear later, when Gary Zill used Zill-80 extensively as a maternal parent in his breeding work. Today, it is the genetic foundation behind several notable cultivars, including Fruit Punch, Edgar, Carla, Marlys, Crystal, C-17, and 36-8 (India / Super Alphonso).
The fruit are large and round, ripening to a yellow base color with a bright red blush. The flesh is dark yellow, firm, and completely fiberless, surrounding a large monoembryonic seed. Eating quality is high, placing Zill-80 firmly in the classic–acidic flavor group. The flavor shows a lively mix of citrus and peach notes with a pronounced tang that appeals strongly to fans of brighter, more acidic mangos. Some fruit can show uneven ripening, particularly if allowed to soften fully on the tree.
Trees exhibit moderate vigor with a spreading, open canopy and generally produce at a good level. Anthracnose resistance is respectable, though fruit may occasionally develop a conspicuous anthracnose spot near the stem end. There is evidence of some susceptibility to bacterial black spot and rot fungi, though severity appears variable and inconsistent year to year.
Zill-80 is considered a late-season mango in Florida, typically ripening from late July through August, and remains notable both for its eating quality and its lasting influence on modern Florida mango breeding.
Flavor: Classic-acidic
Country: Florida, USA
Season: Late
