Van Dyke

Van Dyke is an eye catching Florida cultivar which enjoys wide acceptance throughout Europe. The fiberless fruit has a rich sweet flavor that is both spicy and sweet. Its excellent disease resistance is complemented by exceptional color. The original tree grew from a seed likely planted in the 1930s on the property of Mrs. Madeline Van Dyke in Miami, Florida. For decades the parentage of Van Dyke was unknown, though a 2005 pedigree analysis estimated that Haden was the likely parent. The fruit is of oval shape with a rounded base and a bluntly pointed apex. Most fruit will also contain a small lateral beak. They average under a pound at maturity, with smooth yellow skin color and bright red blush. The flesh is yellow with minimal fiber, and has a rich and sweet flavor and aroma. It contains a monoembryonic seed. The fruit typically ripen from June to July in Florida, and production is considered to be good. Van Dyke is moderately fungus resistant. Van Dyke trees are vigorous growers with open, spreading canopies.