- BYMintari Kenya ltd - June 20, 2025
- 3 Minute Read
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There are more than 30 varieties of mangoes grown across Kenya. As early as the 14th century, traders dealing in ivory and slaves are believed to have introduced the seed into the country. The first mango seedlings introduced in Kenya were mostly ‘polyembryonic,’ meaning they can be re-multiplied and they generally grow true-to-type, retaining the traits of the parent tree. Along the Tana River, some of these original seedlings still exist. Types like Kitoovu, Kimji, Klarabu, Punda, and Mayai are lesser-known due to lower fruit quality, while Apple, Ngowe, Boribo, Batawi, and Dodo are still highly valued today.
The mango tree is a deep-rooted, evergreen plant that can grow into the massive trees you see, especially when planted in deep soils. Tree size and shape vary depending on the variety, but under optimal conditions, mango trees grow quickly and upright. Canopies can range from broad and rounded to tall and narrow. Seedling trees can reach over 20 meters in height. To grow your own…Mango trees are easy to establish and grow well in a wide variety of soils. They thrive in sandy coastal soils, as well as loam, black cotton, and even murram soils at higher elevations. The essential prerequisites for good development of the trees are the deep soils (at least 3 m), appropriate rainfall (500-1000 mm), good drainage, suitable altitude (0-1200 m) and preferably a pH value of between 5.5 and 7.5. Once established, mango trees are fairly tolerant to drought, occasional flooding, and even poor soil conditions. Within the first four years, they typically develop into strong, well-shaped trees. Pruning is rarely needed unless the tree has an unusual shape or too many crowded branches. The mango industry in Kenya has expanded considerably over the recent years, not only in size but also in geographical location of commercial and homestead plantings. Given the multiple products from mango trees, it is therefore a source of employment for a considerable labor force.
The mango tree is scientifically known as Mangifera indica. It belongs to the Anacardiaceae family, which also includes valuable trees like the cashew and pistachio. There are two major races of mango trees: one from India and the other from Southeast Asia. Originally native to India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Malaysia, mango trees are now grown in more than 60 countries worldwide. So although not indigenous to Kenya, mangoes have been cultivated at the Coast for centuries. The tree thrives in warm tropical monsoon climates with a well-defined dry season (lasting over 3 months), followed by rains.
Mango trees are known to produce delicious fruits. The king of fruits. Wood from this tree is used to create sustainable, hardwood furniture here in Kenya and worldwide. The word “fruit” comes from the Latin word fructus, which literally means “enjoyment.” This dual role of providing both nutrition and economic value is why the mango tree has been deeply adopted into the culture and traditions of the Kenyan people. Buy mango wood furniture. Eat mangoes. Buy Mintari. The good things.!
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