Mangifera

Mangifera is a genus of flowering plants in the family Anacardiaceae, comprising about 60 to 70 tropical tree species. Native to South Asia and Southeast Asia, most species occur in the monsoon forests of India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and Indonesia. The best known member is Mangifera indica, the common mango, cultivated worldwide for its fruit and timber.

Trees are evergreen, typically 10–40 m tall, with simple, glossy leaves. The inflorescences are panicles of small flowers, each cluster potentially yielding a fruit. The fruit is a drupe with a thick rind and juicy, aromatic flesh surrounding a fibrous stone.

Species diversity: The genus includes many wild relatives and cultivated varieties. In addition to M. indica, notable species include M. sylvatica, M. caesia, M. pajang, and M. casturi.

Distribution and habitat: Native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, Mangifera species inhabit tropical forests, river valleys, and coastal zones. They require warm temperatures and well-drained soils; several species are threatened by habitat loss.

Uses and significance: Mangifera indica fruits are consumed fresh or processed into juice, preserves, and dried products. The timber is used locally, and breeding programs continue to improve fruit quality and disease resistance.