Some suggest specifically that they originated in the Himalayan region. Estimates of their date of origin range from 4,000 to 6,000 years ago. But knowledge of this wonderful fruit outside the tropical areas of Asia was limited until the 18th century, when it was planted in Brazil and the West Indies. In 1889 the United States Department of Agriculture helped start a mango industry in Florida. Mangoes never became a huge industry in Florida, and what there was got pretty much wiped out by Hurricane Andrew a few years ago.
Mangoes are a staple in the diets of India, Southeast Asia and Latin America.
Mexico is far and away the biggest U.S. supplier, followed by Peru, Haiti, Venezuela, Guatemala and Brazil. In California, Sun World, a grower of specialty produce, has done a remarkable job with Kiett mangoes in the Coachella Valley. While the quality is good, production is minuscule by Mexican standards. Haden is the No. 1 mango in production, distinguished by smooth skin and oval, slight kidney shape. It weighs just under a pound, has a flat, oval pit, bright yellow-orange flesh and firm texture.