Mango Tree
Mangifera indica
The mango is a large tropical evergreen tree grown for its stone fruit. It thrives in hot, frost-free climates.
- Light
- Full sun
- Water
- Deep watering; reduce before flowering
- Difficulty
- Moderate
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Overview
Mangifera indica is a long-lived evergreen tree in the cashew family (Anacardiaceae), native to South Asia and cultivated for over 4,000 years. It is a fruiting tropical tree central to gardens and landscapes across the tropics.
Mature trees are large and densely canopied, capable of living and fruiting for many decades. New growth often flushes in striking coppery-red before maturing to deep green.
How to identify it
- Large, dense, dome-shaped evergreen canopy reaching 30-100 ft in the ground
- Long, leathery lance-shaped leaves, reddish or coppery when young, glossy dark green when mature
- Large branching panicles of small pinkish-white flowers at branch tips
- Kidney-shaped fruit with a single large flat seed and yellow-orange flesh
- Resinous sap; crushed leaves smell faintly turpentine-like
Care & growing
Light: Full sun is essential.
Water: Water deeply during growth and fruiting; withhold water before flowering to encourage bloom; avoid waterlogging.
Soil: Deep, well-drained soil; tolerates a range of types and pH 5.5-7.5.
Temperature: Strictly tropical/subtropical—damaged below ~30°F; needs a dry or cool spell to trigger flowering.
Feeding: Balanced fertilizer when young; avoid heavy nitrogen near bloom.
Propagation: Grafting preserves variety traits; seedlings are slow and variable.
Habitat & origin
Native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, the mango grows in tropical lowland forests and has been cultivated across the tropics for millennia.
Major producers today include India, China, Thailand, Mexico, and the Philippines. It is grown anywhere frost-free with a distinct dry or cool season to prompt flowering.
Frequently asked questions
Can I grow a mango tree from a store-bought mango seed?
Yes, but seedlings take many years to fruit and may not match the parent. Grafted nursery trees fruit faster and true to type.
Why won't my mango tree flower?
Mangoes need a cool or dry resting period to flower. Constant warmth, heavy nitrogen, or excess water can suppress blooms.
Can mango trees grow in pots?
Dwarf or 'condo' mango varieties can fruit in large containers and be protected from cold, though full-size trees outgrow pots.
Mango Tree guides
In-depth guides for identifying, growing, and caring for Mango Tree.
