La Palma is an island you can taste.
Its subtropical climate, fertile volcanic soil, and the dedication of its farmers make possible an astonishing variety of fruits that fill the local markets with colour, aroma, and flavour.
Today, fruit is one of the main pillars of La Palma’s economy, together with tourism and a source of pride for the island’s identity.
Canary Island Banana (PGI): The Golden Jewel of La Palma
Over 40% of the island’s cultivated land is dedicated to bananas, the great symbol of La Palma’s landscape.
This crop, which provides work for more than 5,000 producers, has shaped both the economy and the island’s distinctive green and golden scenery.
Bananas grow on seaside terraces, in mineral-rich volcanic soil, and are watered with pure spring water from the Caldera de Taburiente National Park and Los Tilos.
Their slow ripening, thanks to the mild climate and trade winds, gives them a sweet, creamy texture and exceptional aroma.
Since 2013, the Canary Island Banana has carried the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) label, a European guarantee of origin and quality.
Its unique flavour and smooth texture make it a true emblem of the archipelago.
Avocado from La Palma: Green, Creamy and Healthy
The avocado is a staple of life on La Palma.
It’s cultivated across the island, especially in the north, and is present at every meal — from breakfast to dinner.
Common varieties include:
- Hass, the most exported, with a rough skin and balanced flavour.
- Antillean, smoother in texture, with light almond notes.
- Anayen, typical of the north, large, aromatic, and richly flavoured.
Palmeros eat eight times more avocados than the average Spaniard — proof of how deeply rooted it is in the island’s food culture.
Canary Papaya: Sweet, Fresh and Tropical
After the banana, the Canary papaya is the queen of tropical fruits.
Its soft sweetness, fresh aroma, and juicy texture make it irresistible.
It thrives year-round in the island’s subtropical climate, particularly along the coast.
Green when unripe and bright orange when mature, its flesh recalls peach and coconut, delicious on its own or in smoothies, salads, and desserts.
Mango and Manga from the Canary Islands: Summer Aromas
The mango arrived in the Canary Islands in the 18th century and quickly found an ideal home in La Palma.
From August to December, the coastal farms are filled with golden and orange fruits, filling the markets with summer aromas.
Alongside traditional mangoes, La Palma also grows “manga canaria”, a larger, smoother variety with less fibre and a milder flavour.
Both are sweet, fragrant, and the perfect taste of island summer.
Pitaya or Dragon Fruit: The New Star
In recent years, pitaya has become one of La Palma’s most promising crops.
Exports have grown by more than 60%, and more farms are joining this tropical trend.
Originally from Mexico, this exotic fruit stands out for its vibrant colour, antioxidant properties, high vitamin C content, and low calories.
It can be enjoyed fresh with a spoon, or used in juices, jams, or desserts, symbolising the island’s innovative agricultural spirit.
Other Fruits and Vegetables Grown on La Palma
Beyond its tropical stars, La Palma produces an incredible variety of local fruits and vegetables, many of which are little known outside the Canary Islands.
Their availability changes with the seasons, filling the island’s markets with new colours and flavours throughout the year.
These include citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, mandarins), passion fruit, chayote, sweet potatoes, yams, malanga, plums, red apples, and even Palmero coffee, grown on the northern slopes of the island.
Each one reflects the generous spirit of a land that always gives more than it takes.
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.
Table of Fruits and Vegetables of La Palma
| Fruit or Vegetable | Season of Enjoyment |
|---|---|
| Banana | All year round |
| Avocado | October to February |
| Mango / Manga | August to December |
| Papaya | All year round |
| Pitaya (Dragon fruit) | July to November |
| Citrus fruits (orange, lemon, mandarin) | November to April |
| Passion fruit | July to December |
| Sweet potato | September to January |
| Yam | Winter |
| Chayote | All year round |
| Malanga | Autumn |
| Red apple | September to November |
| Plums | June to August |
| Palmero coffee | Harvested in winter |
