Vanilla Ice Cream Bean Tree 25G

Vanilla Ice Cream Bean Tree – 25 Gallon Pot available in Jupiter, FL.

The Vanilla Ice Cream Bean Tree (Inga edulis) is a tropical delight both in appearance and flavor, and it’s now available in a 25-gallon pot ready for your South Florida landscape. Known for its fast growth, lush green foliage, and delicious bean pods filled with cottony pulp that tastes remarkably like vanilla ice cream, this tree is a standout addition to edible gardens, food forests, or ornamental plantings.

This leguminous tree is native to Central and South America and belongs to the plant class Magnoliopsida in the Fabaceae family. It's prized not only for its edible fruit but also for its nitrogen-fixing abilities, which help enrich the surrounding soil, making it an excellent companion plant in tropical ecosystems.

Plant Features:

• Botanical Name: Inga edulis

• Common Name: Vanilla Ice Cream Bean Tree

• Plant Class: Magnoliopsida

• Family: Fabaceae (Legume)

• Container Size: 25 Gallon

• Mature Height: 20 to 30 feet

• Mature Spread: 15 to 25 feet

• Growth Rate: Fast

• Fruit: Long green pods with soft, sweet white pulp

• Bloom Time: Late spring through summer

Care Information for South Florida:

Sunlight Requirements:
This tree thrives in full sun. It needs a minimum of 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily to grow vigorously and produce an abundance of fruit.

Watering:
Water deeply 2–3 times per week during the first growing season to help establish a strong root system. Once established, the Vanilla Ice Cream Bean Tree is moderately drought-tolerant but prefers consistent moisture, especially during flowering and fruiting. Avoid waterlogged soil.

Soil Preferences:
It prefers rich, well-drained soil with good organic content. While it is adaptable to a variety of soil types, slightly acidic to neutral pH levels will produce the best growth and fruit yields.

Fertilization:
Although it’s a nitrogen-fixer, applying a balanced slow-release fertilizer twice a year can enhance its growth and fruit production. Compost and organic mulch can also support healthy development.

Pruning and Maintenance:
Minimal pruning is needed, but you can shape the tree in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Prune away dead or crowded branches to improve air circulation and structure.

Pests and Diseases:
The tree is relatively pest-resistant in South Florida. Watch for aphids, scale, and mealybugs. These can be managed with natural insecticidal soap if necessary. Good air circulation and sun exposure help prevent fungal issues.

Why It’s Great for South Florida:

• Thrives in warm, humid conditions

• Edible and ornamental

• Supports soil health naturally

• Fast-growing shade option

• Ideal for backyards, schools, or permaculture gardens

Jupiter Farms & Nursery