Ice Cream Bean, Inga edulis, is a large and attractive tree with spreading branches. Seed pods look similar to those of tamarind. Surrounding the inedible black seeds is a thick white juicy pulp that tastes very much like vanilla ice cream. The tree has the added advantage of being nitrogen fixing and is a good choice as a fast growing shade tree. This tree are sometimes planted to provide shade to coffee and cacao plantations. Ice Cream Bean is native to South America and prefers fertile, moist and free draining soils in a protected sunny position. Drought and frost tender, An evergreen tree, growing to 17m by 4m. White and yellow flowers.