In the past, agriculture in La Palma focused on monocultures such as cochineal, sugar cane, and tobacco. However, today, the typical fruit of La Palma plays a fundamental role in the local economy. Bananas have become the main crop and economic engine of the island, alongside tourism. Over 40% of the surface area of La Palma is dedicated to banana cultivation, and 95% of the production is destined for the Spanish market. However, the quality of the land and the pleasant temperatures allow the cultivation of other tropical fruits such as citrus, mangoes, papayas, avocados, and more.
THE EXCELLENCE OF THE TYPICAL FRUIT OF LA PALMA: CANARY ISLANDS BANANA LA PALMA PGI
Banana plantation in La Palma is an essential activity that supports more than 5,300 producers and up to 10,000 families on the island. This fruit has shaped both the economy and the landscape of the region.
To grow bananas in La Palma, fertile volcanic soils have been moved from the high areas of the island to the coastal zones. In these areas, gardens with stone walls are built, giving a unique appearance to the landscape. The mild subtropical climate, even in the summer months, allows a slow development of the crops, resulting in fruits with exceptional maturity and a concentration of nutrients and aromatic substances. The quality of the water used to irrigate these crops, coming from the La Caldera de Taburiente National Park and Los Tilos, along with the gentle rains caused by the trade winds, ensures great purity in the final product.
The PGI bananas from La Palma are characterized by their superior quality and exceptional taste, thanks to growth in mineral-rich volcanic lands. Unfortunately, the volcanic eruption last September caused significant damage to homes, infrastructure, and plantations. Despite the damages caused by lava and ash, the bananas continue to maintain their properties in terms of taste, nutrients, and quality.
Since 2013, the Canary banana has the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) seal, a distinction granted by the European Union since 1992. This recognition makes the Canary banana an exclusive product of the Canary archipelago.
AVOCADO LA PALMA
Avocado has historically been an essential element in the agriculture and gastronomy of the Canary Islands, especially in La Palma, La Gomera, and the north of Tenerife, where it is cultivated.
The cultivation of avocados in La Palma is deeply rooted in local culture. People consume avocados daily, at breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner, as a complement in various recipes. This fruit has gained popularity worldwide due to its numerous nutritional benefits.
Varieties of avocados grown in La Palma:
- The most well-known and exported variety of Palma avocado is ‘hass‘, which has a lower fat content due to the island’s semi-tropical conditions.
- The Antillean avocado: This variety, typical of the Palma farms, has a smooth texture and nuances reminiscent of almonds and other nuts. Its taste is less dense, despite its buttery appearance. Antillean avocados can ripen in green, red, or garnet tones.
- The Anayen avocado: Grown in the north of La Palma, in areas like Los Sauces, San Andrés, and Barlovento, this avocado is characterized by its mild and unique taste. It can reach a large size, weighing over a kilogram. The harvest of this variety takes longer to ripen, resulting in a more concentrated and delicious taste. Anayen avocados can be found until early February.
Fun fact: This tropical fruit is consumed in the archipelago up to eight times more than on the mainland. Canarians consume on average about four kilograms per person per year, while in the rest of Spain, consumption is about half a kilogram per person.
TYPICAL FRUIT OF LA PALMA: CANARY PAPAYA
Papaya is one of the most popular tropical crops in the Canary Islands, after bananas. This versatile fruit has become an essential ingredient in daily food, both as fresh fruit and in recipes that provide an exotic and refreshing touch.
The best climate for growing papaya is tropical and subtropical, which means that this plant adapts perfectly to the warm and humid conditions characteristic of some areas of the Canary Islands.
The Canary papaya is a unique variety distinguished by its sweeter taste and greater fleshiness compared to other papayas. It has a lime-green color that, when ripe, turns to an orange hue. Its sweet and fresh taste evokes notes of citrus, tropical fruits, peach, and coconut. Unlike other papayas, the Canary variety does not have a bitter taste and gives off a milder aroma.
The Canary papaya is more versatile than other varieties, such as the Central American one, thanks to its softness. It is mainly consumed raw, without peel or seeds, but can also be included in salads and stews when still green.
YELLOW CANARIAN MANGO
The Canary mango, although not native to the islands, has found a perfect home for its cultivation since the late 18th century when it was brought from East India and Burma. The warm climate of the Canary Islands favors its growth, making it a much-appreciated local delicacy.
Although 90% of Spanish mangoes are produced in Andalusia, the Canary mango begins to appear on the island’s trees and in the markets at the beginning of summer. The cultivation of the Canary mango is delicate and is hindered in cold seasons. Therefore, it is planted in low-altitude coastal areas, and the harvest takes place between September and December.
In addition to mango, the “Canary manga” is also cultivated in the Canary Islands. It’s a larger and juicier variety than its relative, with less fiber inside. Manga differs from mango in its size and texture, offering a unique and exotic gastronomic experience.
In conclusion, La Palma is a true paradise for fruit lovers, offering a wide variety of exotic and unique flavors you won’t find anywhere else. From Palma bananas to Canary mango, including Canary papaya and Antillean avocado, these tropical delights result from the rich volcanic soil and the prevailing subtropical climate on the island.
During your visit to La Palma, don’t forget to immerse yourself in its gastronomic culture, exploring local markets and tasting the different varieties of fruit that this wonderful island offers. Also, remember that these local products are ideal to take home as souvenirs or gifts, allowing you to share with your loved ones the unique flavors of the island.
Don’t wait any longer to plan your trip to La Palma and enjoy its fruit offering, which will undoubtedly enrich your experience in this charming corner of the Canary archipelago.
Local Markets
During your visit to La Palma, be sure to delve into the culinary culture, explore the local markets, and taste the various types of fruit that this wonderful island has to offer.
