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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.

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.