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Plant Informational Database

Ice Cream Bean

Inga edulis

a.k.a. Inga-Cipo

Although numerous species are called the ice cream bean, this is the most common species attributed the name. Fruit is a long pod, sometimes a few feet in length, containing a bright-white pulp surrounding several large seeds. Flavor is sweet and resembles vanilla ice cream. Very popular fruit in many parts of Central and South America.

Seed Availability

Seeds are not available for the Ice Cream Bean. Please visit our seed store to view current selections.

Description

Medium to large sized tree up to 60+ feet tall.

Hardiness

Will stand temperatures to the 30's when mature.

Growing Environment

Grow in full sun. Naturally occurs near river banks, so it enjoys year-round irrigation.

Propagation

By seeds.

Uses

Almost always eaten fresh. Trees are sometimes planted to provide shade to coffee and cacao plantations.

Native Range

Native to riverbanks, swamps and lakes of the Brazilian Amazon.

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