Mango (Mangifera indica 'Bowen'): The King of Tropical Fruits

The mango tree, especially the 'Bowen' cultivar (also known as Kensington Pride), produces the world's most popular tropical fruit—sweet, juicy, fiberless flesh with a rich, aromatic flavor. Native to South Asia, Mangifera indica is a large, long-lived evergreen tree with dense, glossy foliage.

Cultivation Requirements

Full sun, well-drained soil, frost-free climate (zones 10-11). Young trees need regular water; established trees are drought-tolerant. Fertilize with nitrogen early, then phosphorus/potassium for fruiting. 'Bowen' is anthracnose-resistant and bears reliably.

Harvest and Uses

Fruit ripens 3-5 months after flowering. Harvest when mature but firm, ripen at room temperature. Eat fresh, in smoothies, salsas, chutneys, desserts. The tree provides dense shade.

Taxonomic Information