Photos are representative and may not match your specific variety.

Ice Cream Bean

Tropical

Lathyrus odoratus

Overview
The Ice Cream Bean is a tropical heirloom tree producing elongated, pod-like fruits that ripen in approximately 90 days. The pods contain soft, creamy white pulp with a remarkable vanilla ice cream flavor and distinctive cotton candy texture that dissolves on the tongue. Native to Central and South America, this tree thrives in full sun with rich, well-draining soil. The defining characteristic is its unique taste profile—neither truly fruit nor dessert—making it a novelty choice for tropical gardens. Remarkably pest-resistant and easy to grow, it's prized by enthusiasts seeking unusual, conversation-starting tropical varieties.
Planting
Plant fresh seeds immediately after extraction. Fast-growing from seed.
Growing
Sun: full. Water: high. Soil pH: 5.5–7. Space plants 180" apart. Germination: 7-21.
Pests & diseases
Common pests: Few pest problems, occasional scale insects. Common diseases: Root rot in poorly drained soils.