| 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.