The original tree was grown by Edward F. Mitchell of Miami, Florida. Saigon was thought to possibly be one of the parents of Gold Nugget, but a 2005 pedigree analysis indicated that Gold Nugget was likely an offspring of the Kent mango.[1] Mitchell patented the Gold Nugget in February 1990, which was plant patent number 77158.[2]
The fruit was recognized for its flavor and heavy production characteristics. Gold Nugget is now grown on a small, limited commercial scale in Florida, and is sold as a home dooryard tree by nurseries in the state.
Gold Nugget trees are planted in the collections of the USDA's germplasm repository in Miami[3] and the Miami-Dade Fruit and Spice Park in Homestead, Florida.[4]
The skin of the fruit turns yellow orange at maturity, sometimes with some pink blush. The flesh is yellow and virtually fiberless, with a mild sweet flavor, and contains a monoembryonic seed.[5] It is usually of oval shape and weighs under a pound. Gold Nugget fruit typically matures from late-July to August in Florida.
The tree is a vigorous grower with an open canopy.
