The mango originated in southeast Asia where it has been grown for over 4,000 years. Mango groves are now in many parts of the tropical and sub- tropical world. Most of the mangos sold in the United States are imported from Mexico, Haiti, the Caribbean and South America.

Mango trees can grow to be 60 feet tall. The tree is long lived with some still bearing fruit after 300 years. The fruit takes 3 to 6 months to ripen. The ripe fruit gives off a sweet smell.

The ripe fruit varies in size and color. Some are yellow, orange, red and green. All contain a single flat oblong fibrous pit.

Mangoes are an excellent source of vitamin A & C, as well as a good source of potassium. Mangoes are also high in fiber & anti- oxidants.

Mango is consumed both as ripe fruit and as unripe fruit. The unripe form is pickled or cooked. The ripe mango is commonly eaten fresh, made into smoothies, juice, salsa or curries.

Mango peel contains the chemical in poison ivy & poison sumac & can cause skin irritation in some people.

References Children’s Literature about Mangos Mbutu’s Mangos by Zaccai Free