Common Name: Inga Macaco

General Information

Inga macaco is a semi-deciduous tree with a broad crown; it can grow 10 - 20 metres tall. The cylindrical, more or less straight bole can be 20 - 40cm in diameter[, ].
The edible fruits are greatly appreciated within the plants native range and are commonly gathered from the wild[].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

Range

S. America - southern and eastern Brazil.

Habitat

Found in both primary and secondary formations in the Atlantic rainforests of Brazil, also in gallery forests in savannah areas[, ].

Properties

Edibility Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Semi-deciduous Tree
Height	16.00 m
Growth Rate	Fast
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

Grows well in full sun and also in dappled shade[]. Prefers a moist soil and can withstand seasonal inundation of the soil[].
A fast-growing species, newly planted young trees can easily reach heights of 2.5 metres or more within 2 years[].
This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby[].

Edible Uses

Fruit - raw[]. The fruit is a legume up to 20cm long and 5cm wide, containing a few seeds wrapped in a thick layer of a sweet and pleasant tasting pulp[, ].

Medicinal

None known

Agroforestry Uses:

Often found as a pioneer within its native range, the tree is fast-growing, yields an edible fruit that is also greatly appreciated by the wildlife, and also fixes atmospheric nitrogen[]. It has a good potential for use as a pioneer species in re-establishing woodland[].

Other Uses

The bark is a source of tannins[].

The wood is medium-textured, straight-grained, light in weight, with moderate mechanical properties and with poor durability when exposed to the elements. It is used for low value items such as boards, linings, matches etc[].
The wood is used for fuel and to make charcoal[].

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe[]. Sow in a lightly shaded position in a nursery seedbed. A moderate rate of germination can be expected, with the seeds sprouting within a few days. Transplant the seedlings to individual containers when they have 4 - 6 leaves and they should be ready for planting out 5 - 6 months later[].

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