Guaba de zorro
Inga insignisfam. Fabaceae
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Pl. 00CD — Inga insignis
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IOverview
Overview
Guaba de zorro, scientifically known as Inga insignis, is a small to medium-sized tree native to the forests of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. This member of the Fabaceae family thrives in various habitats, from dry areas to moist environments, and can grow up to 8 meters tall. It prefers light or partial sun with well-drained soil types ranging from sandy to clay. Known for its edible fruit, this tree is a valuable resource in its native range, providing sustenance while also serving as an ornamental addition to gardens due to its distinctive appearance.
Quick answers
What is Guaba de zorro?
Guaba de zorro, scientifically known as Inga insignis, is a small to medium-sized tree native to the forests of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. This member of the Fabaceae family thrives in various habitats, from dry areas to moist environments, and can grow up to 8 meters tall.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Guaba de zorro (Inga insignis) thrives in full to partial sun and prefers well-draining soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is drought-tolerant but benefits from moist conditions. This tree grows up to 8 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions with a range of zones 10-12. For cultivation, ensure the soil remains consistently moist during dry periods while avoiding waterlogged conditions. Propagate via seeds or cuttings for successful growth. The fruit is edible, making this plant both ornamental and useful for its produce.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
8.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Guaba de zorro for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Guaba de zorro in a sunny spot and follow these simple steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
Guaba de zorro saplings, garden gloves, spade or trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Guaba de zorro in spring when the weather is warming up.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with well-draining soil. Amend heavy clay soils with sand for better drainage.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant saplings from containers into your garden, spacing them about 3 meters apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the plants regularly to help them establish. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Guaba de zorro prefers full sun to partial shade. Water when the soil feels dry, especially in dry periods.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune young plants to shape them and remove any dead or damaged branches. Fruit can be harvested once the pods turn brown.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without amending, not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Fruit
Edible uses: The fruit of the Guaba de zorro (Inga insignis) is edible and can be eaten raw or used in various preparations. Typically, it is consumed fresh but may also be dried for later use. The fruit provides a light, refreshing snack suitable for those in its native range of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Other uses:Nitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
3 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 3 native
Americas3 regions
native (3)ColombiaEcuadorPeru
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Fabaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fabaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
XII
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