Ice Cream Bean Tree
Inga edulis
Also known as
Joaquiniquil, Guama
Photo by Eden Project (All rights reserved)
Full Shade
Moderate care
Moderate watering
Tender
H2
RHS hardiness
1°C
Minimum temperature
Expected size
Height | Spread | |
---|---|---|
20m | Max | 10m |
Min |
Flowering
More images of Ice Cream Bean Tree
Ice Cream Bean Tree Overview
The Ice Cream Bean is an evergreen tree, native to S. Tropical America. It has a broad, spreading crown and may grow up to 20 metres tall. As a result, it is commonly used as a shade tree for perennial crops, and considered to be among the most important Neotropical shade tree plants. The fruits are pendant, and can grow up to 1 m long. The seeds, which can vary in number from 10–20, are embedded in the sweet, cottony, white jelly-like pulp, which gives it its common name. Beyond its edible fruits, Inga edulis is also an economically-important species as it grows well on acidic soils. It is thought to have a positive fertilising effect, maintaining soil moisture, controlling erosion, and suppressing weeds.