Ice Cream Bean, Inga

Inga edulis Mart.

IN-gah ED-you-lus

Legumes

Explanation of name:   Inga comes from a localized name for a related species. Edulis means edible.

Natural range:  Tropical America

Recognition:   Potentially large tree with pinnately compound leaves with winged rachis.  Flowers  mimosoid, clusters with long white stamens.  Pods long, containing edible white pulp

Landscape uses: Large legume tree with novel pods containing edible pulp.  Propagated by seeds, these recalcitrant.  Requires cross-pollination

Internet sources:  http://www.tradewindsfruit.com/ice_cream_bean.htm

http://www.tropilab.com/inga.html

http://www.echonet.org/content/fruitInformation/625

http://www.hear.org/pier/species/inga_edulis.htm