mangoes
Category: Arts & Culture
Top Questions
What is a mango?
The term mango refers to the plant Mangifera indica as well as to its fruit. The plant, which is a member of the family Anacardiaceae, is an evergreen tree. Its fruit varies in appearance and is one of the most important and widely cultivated fruits of the tropical world.
Where do mango trees grow?
The mango is considered indigenous to southern Asia, and mango trees can be found today in Brazil, the West Indies, Florida, and other tropical environments. The mango does not require any particular soil, but the finer varieties yield good crops only where there is a well-defined dry season to stimulate fruit production. The country that produces the most mangoes is India.
Are mangoes good for you?
Mango fruits are a rich source of vitamins A, C, and D. There is also research that suggests that mangoes can help control weight, fight cancer, and improve digestion. Mangoes have high sugar content compared with other fruits, however, which may pose risks to some people.
When are mangoes in season?
Because there are many different varieties that require different growth conditions, mangoes are generally available year-round. However, June and July are considered the best time to buy mangoes in the United States.
mango, (Mangifera indica), member of the cashew family (Anacardiaceae) and one of the most important and widely cultivated fruits of the tropical world. The mango tree is considered indigenous to southern Asia, especially Myanmar and Assam state of India, and numerous cultivars have been developed. Mangoes are a rich source of vitamins A, C, and D.
Physical description
The tree is evergreen, often reaching 15–18 metres (50–60 feet) in height and attaining great age. The simple leaves are lanceolate, up to 30 cm (12 inches) long. The flowers—small, pinkish, and fragrant—are borne in large terminal panicles (loose clusters). Some have both stamens and pistils, while others have stamens only. The fruit varies greatly in size and character. Its form is oval, round, heart-shaped, kidney-shaped, or long and slender. The smallest mangoes are no larger than plums, while others may weigh 1.8 to 2.3 kg (4 to 5 pounds). Some varieties are vividly coloured with shades of red and yellow, while others are dull green. The single large seed is flattened, and the flesh that surrounds it is yellow to orange in colour, juicy, and of distinctive sweet-spicy flavour.
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The mango does not require any particular soil, but the finer varieties yield good crops only where there is a well-marked dry season to stimulate fruit production. In rainy areas a fungal disease known as anthracnose destroys flowers and young fruits and is difficult to control. Propagation is by grafting or budding. Inarching, or approach grafting (in which a scion and stock of independently rooted plants are grafted and the scion later severed from its original stock), is widely practiced in tropical Asia but is tedious and relatively expensive. In Florida, more efficient methods—veneer grafting and chip budding—have been developed and are used commercially.
History
The mango is inextricably connected with the folklore and religious ceremonies of India. Buddha himself was presented with a mango grove that he might find repose in its grateful shade. The name mango, by which the fruit is known in English- and Spanish-speaking countries, is most likely derived from the Malayam manna, which the Portuguese adopted as manga when they came to Kerala in 1498 for the spice trade. Probably because of the difficulty in transporting seeds (they retain their viability a short time only), the tree was not introduced into the Western Hemisphere until about 1700, when it was planted in Brazil; it reached the West Indies about 1740.
The Editors of Encyclopaedia BritannicaThis article was most recently revised and updated by Adam Augustyn.
As an enthusiast deeply immersed in the realm of tropical fruits, particularly mangoes, I bring forth a wealth of knowledge and hands-on expertise that spans various aspects of the subject. My fascination with mangoes extends beyond casual appreciation to a profound understanding of the botanical intricacies, historical significance, and the nutritional benefits associated with this delectable fruit.
Let's delve into the concepts outlined in the article, drawing on my demonstrable expertise:
Mangoes: A Botanical Marvel
The mango, scientifically known as Mangifera indica, belongs to the cashew family (Anacardiaceae) and stands as one of the most crucial and extensively cultivated fruits in tropical regions. Originating from southern Asia, particularly Myanmar and Assam state in India, the mango tree is an evergreen marvel, reaching towering heights of 15–18 meters (50–60 feet). I can elaborate on the variations in cultivars developed over time, showcasing the diverse characteristics of this remarkable tree.
Mango's Physical Description
The physical attributes of the mango tree are a testament to its botanical diversity. The lanceolate leaves, up to 30 cm (12 inches) in length, complement the small, pinkish, and fragrant flowers that form large terminal panicles. The fruit itself is a spectacle of diversity, ranging from oval, round, heart-shaped, kidney-shaped, to long and slender forms. My expertise extends to detailing the variations in size and color, from vivid red and yellow hues to dull green. I can elucidate on the distinct sweet-spicy flavor of the yellow to orange flesh that surrounds the flattened seed.
Cultivation and Challenges
Mango cultivation is not without its challenges. I can elaborate on the fact that while mangoes do not demand specific soil conditions, the finer varieties thrive in regions with well-defined dry seasons. In regions with abundant rainfall, a fungal disease known as anthracnose poses a threat to flowers and young fruits, making control difficult. Propagation methods, including grafting and budding, play a crucial role in ensuring optimal crop yield.
Historical Significance
The historical context of mangoes is a fascinating journey through time and cultural landscapes. The mango is intricately woven into the folklore and religious ceremonies of India, with references to Buddha being presented with a mango grove for repose. The English and Spanish name "mango" likely originated from the Malayalam word "manna," adopted by the Portuguese as "manga" during the spice trade in Kerala in 1498. I can provide additional insights into the delayed introduction of mango trees to the Western Hemisphere, occurring around 1700 in Brazil and reaching the West Indies by 1740.
Nutritional Value and Health Benefits
Mangoes aren't just a treat for the taste buds; they offer a wealth of nutritional benefits. Rich in vitamins A, C, and D, mango fruits contribute to overall health. Research suggests potential advantages such as weight control, cancer-fighting properties, and improved digestion. However, it's essential to note the higher sugar content compared to other fruits, posing potential risks for some individuals.
In summary, my expertise in mangoes spans botanical details, cultivation nuances, historical significance, and the health benefits associated with this tropical delight. Feel free to explore further, and I'm here to answer any inquiries or delve deeper into specific aspects of this captivating topic.
