Types

• In the U.S., there are generally six types of mangoes grown and sold. Haden mangoes have medium to large oval fruits with a firm texture and a luscious flavor. Tommy Atkins mangoes resemble the Haden mango in shape, but have a more fibrous texture and are mildly sweet. The Keitt mangoes are large and oval in shape with a rich and fruity flavor and a smooth texture. Kent mangoes have many similarities with the Keitt mangoes, but are juicier. Francine mangoes are sweet and spicy and have some fiber, but unlike the other mangoes that are red when ripe, this type remains green with some yellow spots. The Ataulfo mango does not turn red, either, but has a bright yellow color when ripe and a spicy-sweet flavor and buttery texture.
  
  

Growth

• Mango trees can grow as high as 100 feet and need a hot, tropical climate with well-drained soil to propagate. Trees younger than 10 years old flower and bear fruit annually, but older trees only bear mangoes every 2 years. The majority of mangoes grown in the U.S. derive from Florida and California. The biggest enemy of the mango is the fruit fly; produce grown in Florida have to be fumigated from the pests by submerging the fruit into hot water before transported interstate or abroad.
  
  

Nutritional Value and Use

• The aromatic, oval-shaped fruit has a large central stone that is difficult to remove. The skin and the stone are not edible, but the aromatic flesh of the mango is rich in vitamin A and C, and contains valuable carbohydrates, fibers and natural sugars. One serving of 1/2 cup, or 3 oz. of sliced mango contains 50 calories. Mangoes are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, including chutneys, salsas and salads. They also are used as flavoring in ice creams, yogurts and milkshakes, and provide the basis for juices and smoothies.
  
  

Festivals

• The mango is celebrated in the U.S. through several festivals that not only provide information about the mango, but also give opportunities to taste different varieties. The Mango Festival at Fairchild in Miami, Florida happens every year in early July, while MangoMania in Pine Island, Florida is celebrated at the end of the same month. Also, Hawaii arranges Mango festivals with the Hawaii Healing Garden and Mango Festival in July on the Keauhou Beach Resort on Big Island. The Botanical Garden in St. Croix on the Virgin Islands celebrates the mango annually in June with the Mango Melee Festival.