Inga Bean (Inga edulis)

Inga Bean is part of the family Leguminosae, nitrogen fixing plant. Nitrogen fixing bacteria form nodules on the plant roots providing the plant with nitrogen that they fix from the air. Known as the Ice Cream Bean tree.

Pods up to 1 metre long contain sweet, juicy, white pulp that has a soft cotton wool texture and tastes of vanilla ice-cream. "A delectable snack that comes in its own natural wrapper" which is loved by children. Can be eaten fresh or used as flavouring for desserts. Seeds can be cooked and eaten like a vegetable, in Mexico they roast and sell as a snack. 

Plants are between 50-80cm tall. 

Plant Care 

• Soil: Thrives in fertile, well-drained soil with a pH ranging from slightly acidic to neutral.
• Watering: Requires consistent moisture, especially during the growing and fruiting periods. Water deeply and regularly but avoid waterlogging.
• Temperature: Prefers warm climates, ideally between 20°C to 30°C. It can tolerate brief periods of cooler temperatures but is not frost-tolerant.
• Light: Full sun to partial shade. In hotter climates, some afternoon shade can help prevent leaf scorch.
• Fertilising: Use a balanced NPK fertilizer (such as 10-10-10) during the growing season every two months. Additional organic matter, like compost or manure, can be beneficial.
• Pruning: Prune to control growth and remove any damaged or diseased limbs. This helps maintain the health of the tree and encourages more fruit production.
• Mulching: Apply organic mulch around the base to help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the root system cool.
• Pest Control: Watch for common pests such as aphids and leaf miners. Use appropriate organic pesticides or introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
• Flowering and Fruiting: Produces fragrant white flowers followed by edible pods. The tree can produce fruit several times a year under optimal conditions.
• Potting: While usually grown in the ground due to its size, it can be potted in large containers with adequate drainage for smaller spaces or controlled environments.
• Feeding Regime: Supplement with a potassium-rich fertilizer during the flowering period to enhance fruit quality.