Senthoora

Senthoora (also spelled Sindoora, and often referred to as the Lalbaug of South India or the Vermilion Mango) is a highly popular, early-season commercial heirloom mango variety native to Tamil Nadu and grown extensively in Kerala and Karnataka. The name 'Senthoora' is derived from 'Sindoor' (vermilion), a direct reference to the brilliant red-to-orange blush that develops over its shoulders as it matures. It is highly celebrated as one of the first premium mangoes to arrive in markets, signaling the official start of the summer mango season.

Physically, Senthoora is a medium-sized mango weighing between 220 and 320 grams. It has an attractive roundish-oval shape with thin, smooth skin that turns a vibrant yellow highlighted by its signature red blush. The pulp is a deep golden-yellow, incredibly soft, and extremely juicy, containing absolutely no stringy fiber. It is highly favored by consumers who love to squeeze and drink the sweet juice directly from the whole fruit.

The flavor of Senthoora is intensely sweet with distinct floral notes resembling jasmine, balanced by a mild, refreshing tartness. Sugar levels measure a solid 17° to 19° Brix. Cultivated extensively in the Salem, Dharmapuri, and Krishnagiri districts of Tamil Nadu, Senthoora is a highly prolific regular bearing variety, providing Southern farmers with consistent, early-season income when prices are at their highest.

The harvesting season for Senthoora begins early in mid-April and extends through late May, with peak sweetness in early May. Because it is highly juicy and has a thin skin, it has a moderate post-harvest shelf life of 5 to 7 days and must be transported quickly to local retail centers. To discover more unique early-season varieties, explore the Mango Identifier Hub, or view profiles on Alphonso, Badami, and Pairi.