The wild mango tree is a term used to describe a species of tree known as Irvingia gabonensis, which is native to the tropical rainforests of West and Central Africa. It is commonly found in countries such as Cameroon, Nigeria, and Ghana. The tree belongs to the family Irvingiaceae and is also known by various local names like Ogbono tree and African mango tree.
The wild mango tree typically grows up to 20-40 meters in height and has a dense crown with a spread of approximately 15-20 meters. Its trunk is usually straight and can reach a diameter of 1 meter. The tree features dark green, glossy, and leathery leaves that are about 10-25 centimeters long.
One of the most notable features of the wild mango tree is its fruit. The fruits are large and can vary in shape, ranging from round to oval. They have a tough, fibrous outer skin that turns from green to yellow as they ripen. Inside the fruit, there is a large seed surrounded by a sweet, yellow flesh. This edible flesh is often used in cooking as a thickening agent or flavoring agent in various traditional cuisines of West Africa.
Apart from its culinary uses, the wild mango tree also has medicinal properties. The seeds of the fruit are a rich source of oil, which is used in traditional medicines for its potential health benefits, including cholesterol-lowering and appetite-suppressing properties. Additionally, various parts of the tree, such as the bark and leaves, are believed to have therapeutic uses in treating ailments like diarrhea, dysentery, and hernia.
Overall, the wild mango tree is an important tree species in Africa, valued for its edible fruits and potential medicinal properties.
