Contents
Description
Inga Umbellifera is a species of plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is also known as Guama, Inga, and Ice-cream-bean tree. This plant is native to South America and can be found in countries such as Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. Inga Umbellifera is a popular plant due to its edible fruit and its beautiful flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Inga |
Appearance
Inga Umbellifera is a medium-sized tree that can grow up to 30 meters tall. Its leaves are compound and can reach up to 30 centimeters in length. The flowers of this plant are white and pink and are arranged in clusters. The fruit of Inga Umbellifera is a pod that can be up to 30 centimeters long and contains seeds that are surrounded by a sweet, edible pulp.
Care Guide
Inga Umbellifera requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. It prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. This plant is not very tolerant of drought, so it is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Inga Umbellifera should be fertilized regularly with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth. This plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. Inga Umbellifera is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Inga Umbellifera is susceptible to various pests and diseases, including mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Inga Umbellifera can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. These diseases can be prevented by providing proper drainage and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Inga Umbellifera is native to South America and can be found in various habitats, including wet forests, savannas, and riverbanks. This plant prefers humid environments and can thrive in areas with high rainfall. Inga Umbellifera is an important plant for local wildlife and is often used as a food source for animals such as bats and birds.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Inga Umbellifera a fruit-bearing plant?
A: Yes, Inga Umbellifera produces edible fruit that is surrounded by a sweet, edible pulp.
Q: What are the common pests that affect Inga Umbellifera?
A: Mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects are common pests that affect Inga Umbellifera.
Q: What kind of soil does Inga Umbellifera prefer?
A: Inga Umbellifera prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Inga Umbellifera?
A: Inga Umbellifera is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Related Plants
- Inga edulis
- Inga feuillei
- Inga laurina
- Inga marginata
- Inga punctata
References
- Bernal, R., Gradstein, S. R., & Celis, M. (2015). Catálogo de plantas y líquenes de Colombia. Instituto de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Colombia.
- Hilty, J. (2018). Inga umbellifera. In: Firefly Forest. Retrieved from https://www.fireflyforest.com/flowers/2337/inga-umbellifera/
- USDA. (2021). PLANTS Database. Retrieved from https://plants.sc.egov.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=IN&photoID=
