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.

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Uses

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

Plant Cultivation

Medium to large sized tree up to 60+ feet tall. Naturally occurs near river banks, so it enjoys year-round irrigation. Will stand temperatures to the 30's when mature.
Propagation: By seed.

Origin and Distribution

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

Related Species

Leguminosae
Acacia cavena Espinillo
Acacia koa Koa
Caesalpinia echinata Brazilwood
Ceratonia siliqua Carob
Delonix regia Royal Poinciana
Inga cinnamomea Inga Acu
Inga edulis Ice Cream Bean
Inga feuillei Pacay
Inga marginata Guabilla
Inocarpus fagifer Polynesian Chestnut
Parkia javanica Sataw
Pongamia pinnata Pongam
Pithecellobium dulce Manila Tamarind
Senna multiglandulos Buttercup Bush
Tamarindus indica Tamarind

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