The mango tree, scientifically known as Mangifera indica, is a majestic tropical species, celebrated for its delicious fruit and lush, dense foliage. Native to South Asia—particularly India—this tree has spread across tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Reaching heights of up to 30 metres, with a sturdy trunk and broad, glossy green leaves, it provides welcome shade and a refreshing atmosphere in the botanical garden of Au Bois Vert, located in Ivato near Antananarivo.
Mangifera indica, or the mango tree, is also known for its rapid growth under ideal conditions. It thrives in warm climates and well-drained soils, and can withstand brief dry spells. In spring, it bursts into bloom with clusters of small, fragrant white or pinkish flowers. These blossoms attract a host of pollinators, helping to ensure a generous yield of fruit.
The fruit itself—the mango—is a fleshy drupe with smooth skin that ranges in colour from green to yellow, red, or even a blend of shades. At its core lies a single large seed. But it’s the mango’s juicy, sweet flesh—rich in vitamins A and C—that earns it global acclaim. Within the gardens of Au Bois Vert, the mango tree offers visitors a truly sensory experience, whether they’re staying at the hotel or enjoying a meal at the on-site restaurant.
What’s more, this remarkable tree can live for over a century, producing bountiful harvests year after year, often beginning in late spring. A visit to this unique botanical garden reveals why the mango tree is cherished not only as a cultural symbol and food source but also as a striking ornamental feature.
Plant use
The mango tree is more than just an ornamental feature in tropical gardens; it also plays a vital role in nutrition, traditional medicine, and the daily lives of many local communities. Its fruit, the mango, is enjoyed fresh, dried, or processed into juices, chutneys, and desserts. Rich in fibre, vitamins, and antioxidants, it supports the immune system and promotes healthy digestion. In traditional Indian and Malagasy medicine, various parts of Mangifera indica are valued for their therapeutic properties. The leaves, for instance, are used to treat digestive issues and diabetes, while the bark and roots are commonly included in remedies for skin infections and inflammation. Mango wood is also sought after for construction and furniture-making. Its durability and pale colour make it a preferred material, especially in regions where the tree grows in abundance. Beyond its practical uses, the mango tree adds significant aesthetic value to the botanical garden at Au Bois Vert. It provides welcome shade for visitors exploring the grounds or staying at the lodge in Ivato. Often a focal point in tropical gardens, the mango tree draws the attention of both plant enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Encountering a mango tree in full bloom or tasting its ripe fruit offers a distinctive and memorable experience at the Au Bois Vert botanical garden — a must-visit stop in Antananarivo.
Key information
| Common name | Mango tree |
| Scientific name | Mangifera indica |
| Origin | South Asia, mainly India |
| Natural habitat | Tropical and subtropical regions |
| Life cycle | Long-life shaft |
| Flowering period | Spring and early summer |
