Inga sp Live Plant

Ocean-Kissed Sweetness: Inga sp. – A Rare Coastal Treasure for Tropical Gardens

Inga sp., a lesser-known yet captivating fruit tree species, holds its origins near the golden shores of Espírito Santo in Brazil. Flourishing just 200 meters from the coastline, this tropical gem thrives in sandy soils and offers a delicious experience wrapped in a compact and manageable tree form. Its remarkable fruit, ease of cultivation, and ornamental appeal make it a highly sought-after addition for fruit lovers and plant collectors alike.

Veliyath Gardens proudly introduces this rare variety to Indian soil, marking a pioneering step toward bringing extraordinary and region-specific fruit plants from distant lands. Due to its unique attributes and soaring demand, this species remains in limited stock.

Botanical and Common Names

• Botanical Name: Inga sp.

• Common Names: Often referred to as “Ice-cream Bean,” “Guaba” in Central America, and “Ingá” in Brazil.

Fruit Characteristics and Culinary Experience

• The Inga fruit is encased in long, greenish pods that split open to reveal snowy-white pulp.

• Taste Profile: The pulp has a luscious sweetness with light vanilla-like notes, making it a refreshing snack straight from nature.

• One of its notable features is the non-sticky pulp—an unusual and delightful trait for a tropical fruit.

• The texture is soft, airy, and juicy, lending itself to:

  • Fresh consumption

  • Fruit salads

  • Natural dessert toppings

  • Smoothies and drinks

Health Benefits and Nutritional Values

Inga sp. isn’t just a treat to the palate; it carries several nutritional and medicinal advantages:

• Rich in dietary fiber – aids in digestion and improves gut health.

• Natural energy booster – the sweet pulp offers quick energy without processed sugar.

• Antioxidant content – helps fight oxidative stress and supports immunity.

• Vitamins and minerals – traces of Vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium contribute to overall wellness.

• Traditionally, in certain parts of South America, the tree bark and leaves have also been used for folk remedies to treat inflammation and minor infections.

Cultural Relevance and Traditional Use

Inga trees are woven into the cultural fabric of many Latin American countries. Often planted near homes, schools, and farms, they serve both ecological and culinary purposes.

• In coastal Brazil, the fruits are shared among communities during festive seasons.

• In Colombia and Peru, the pods are often sold in local markets and eaten by children as a natural candy.

• It is considered a symbol of abundance and hospitality in rural communities.

Growth Habit and Maintenance Tips

• A medium-sized tree reaching approximately 4 to 5 meters in height.

• Adaptable to tropical and subtropical climates, especially in regions with moderate humidity and coastal influence.

• Tolerates sandy or loamy soils and prefers well-drained locations.

• Low-maintenance: Inga sp. requires minimal pruning and is resilient to pests.

• Growth can be encouraged with light organic mulching and occasional watering during dry spells.

Preservation and Practical Use

• Fruits should be consumed fresh for the best taste.

• Pods can be refrigerated for short-term storage (up to 3–4 days).

• For preservation:

  • The pulp can be frozen and later used in juices or desserts.

  • Seeds, once cleaned, can be planted immediately or preserved in slightly moist sawdust for short durations before sowing.

How Inga sp. Adds Value to Your Life

• Homegrown sweetness: Imagine plucking a pod from your garden and enjoying its fresh vanilla-flavored flesh under the shade of your own tree.

• Eco-friendly living: As a nitrogen-fixing plant, Inga enhances soil fertility naturally.

• A conversation starter: This tree is not just functional but also exotic and ornamental, perfect for garden lovers with an eye for rare beauty.

• Cultural curiosity: Owning this tree brings with it a piece of Latin America’s tropical charm and biodiversity.

Why Choose Inga sp. from Veliyath Gardens

Veliyath Gardens, with its ever-growing catalogue of rare and exotic plants, now brings Inga sp. as part of its limited collection. Given its shortage due to high demand, this plant is currently available only in selective batches.

As a first-time initiative in India, Veliyath Gardens acts as a living encyclopedia of exotic fruit plants—offering more than just saplings. We offer knowledge, care advice, and heritage to every fruit enthusiast who wishes to grow something truly extraordinary.

Let your garden be the first to echo the coastal breeze and the natural sweetness of Brazil’s rarest treasures. Secure your Inga sp. plant today—before it’s gone from this season’s release.