Tamarind

(Tamarindus indica)

Tamarind (Tamarindus indica)

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Estimated Native Range
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Summary

Tamarindus indica, commonly known as Tamarind, is a long-lived, medium-growth, deciduous tree native to the dry savannahs of sub-Saharan Africa, including Madagascar, and has been extensively cultivated in tropical regions around the world. It typically attains a maximum crown height of 12 to 18 meters (40 to 60 feet) with a dense, irregular, vase-shaped canopy. The branches tend to droop from a single, central trunk as the tree matures, creating a distinctive silhouette. The tree’s foliage consists of fine, pinnate leaves that close up at night. Tamarind flowers are showy, with yellow petals and orange or red streaks, blooming in small racemes. The fruit is a pod containing a fleshy, juicy, acidic pulp that is brown or reddish-brown when mature, known for its sweet and sour taste.

Tamarind trees are valued for their edible fruit, which is used in cuisines worldwide, and for their shade-providing canopies in hot climates. They are often grown in tropical agricultural systems and are also planted as ornamental trees in parks and gardens. The tree is drought-tolerant and can grow in a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils, but it requires good drainage. It thrives in full sun and is sensitive to frost. Tamarind is also known for its medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine. However, it can be invasive outside its native range, so care should be taken when planting it in non-native areas.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 40-60 feet
  • Width: 30-50 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Low
  • Drainage: Medium, Slow

Common Uses

Bank Stabilization, Drought Tolerant, Edible*Disclaimer: Easyscape's listed plant edibility is for informational use. Always verify the safety and proper identification of any plant before consumption., Fragrant, Salt Tolerant

Natural Habitat

Dry savannahs of sub-Saharan Africa

Other Names

Common Names: Indian Date , Kilytree , Indian Tamarind , Tamarinde , Tamarindenbaum , Tamarindo , Tamarin Des Bas , Tamarinier , Tamarinier Des Bas , Tamarin

Scientific Names: Tamarindus indica , Tamarindus occidentalis , Tamarindus indica var. occidentalis , Cavaraea elegans , Tamarindus erythraeus , Tamarindus indica var. emarginata , Tamarindus officinalis , Tamarindus somalensis , Tamarindus umbrosa

GBIF Accepted Name: Tamarindus indica L.