
Ice Cream Bean, Feuileei (Inga feuilleei)
Sweet and Nutritious Tropical Fruit Tree Common Names: Ice Cream Bean, Pacay, Guaba, Shimbillo, Guamo, Rabo de Mico, Monkey TailFamily: FabaceaeOrigin: South America (Amazon Basin, Andes) Ice Cream Bean (Inga feuilleei), also known by various names such as Pacay, Guaba, and Shimbillo, is a fast-growing tropical tree prized for its long, pod-like fruits filled with sweet, cottony pulp that tastes like vanilla ice cream. Native to the Amazon Basin and Andean regions of South America, this versatile tree is not only valued for its delicious fruit but also for its ability to fix nitrogen and improve soil fertility. The soft, white pulp surrounding the seeds is enjoyed fresh, making it a favorite among children and adults alike in tropical regions. In addition to its edible value, Ice Cream Bean is often grown as a shade or agroforestry tree in tropical permaculture systems. Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value Fruits: The tree produces long, green to brown pods, often over a f