Grow Your Own Ice Cream Bean Tree

The Jumbo Ice Cream Bean Plant, also known as Inga edulis, is a fast-growing, nitrogen-fixing tree that produces delicious, edible pods filled with a sweet, cotton candy-like pulp. This live plant arrives in a half-gallon pot, ready to be transplanted into your garden or a larger container. Enjoy the unique experience of growing your own tropical fruit and add a touch of the exotic to your landscape.

This remarkable tree offers more than just tasty treats. The Inga edulis is known for its ability to improve soil health, provide shade, and attract pollinators. Its beautiful, feathery foliage adds a lush, tropical feel to any garden. With proper care, your Jumbo Ice Cream Bean Plant will quickly become a cherished part of your outdoor space, providing years of enjoyment and delicious harvests. Cultivating this plant is an excellent way to support sustainable gardening practices.

Benefits of Growing Inga Edulis:

• Delicious and unique fruit with a sweet, cotton candy flavor
• Nitrogen-fixing properties to improve soil health
• Fast-growing and provides ample shade
• Attracts pollinators, supporting a healthy ecosystem
• Beautiful, feathery foliage adds a tropical touch to your garden

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How big will the Jumbo Ice Cream Bean Plant get? The Inga edulis can grow to a mature height of 30-60 feet in its native habitat, but can be maintained at a smaller size with pruning. Expect a height of 10-20 feet when grown in containers.
2. What kind of soil does the Inga edulis need? This plant thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal.
3. How much sunlight does the Jumbo Ice Cream Bean Plant need? The Inga edulis prefers full sun, which means at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. It can tolerate partial shade but will produce more fruit in full sun.
4. When can I expect to harvest ice cream beans? The Jumbo Ice Cream Bean Plant typically begins to produce fruit within 2-3 years of planting, depending on growing conditions and care.
5. Is the Inga edulis cold hardy? This plant is best suited for USDA zones 9-11. It is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.

Planting and Care Tips

When planting your Jumbo Ice Cream Bean Plant, choose a location that receives plenty of sunlight and has well-draining soil. Water regularly, especially during dry periods. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer to promote healthy growth and fruit production. Prune as needed to maintain the desired shape and size. With proper care, your Inga edulis will thrive and provide you with years of delicious fruit and beautiful foliage. This remarkable fruit tree is a great addition to any garden. It’s a unique tropical tree with great benefits.