The Tamarind tree
With a very attractive growth habit, the Tamarind Tree is a lovely slow growing tropical tree with soft attractive foliage and yellow flowers in summer. The botanical name is Tamarindus indica however simply known as the Tamarind tree.
Strictly a tropical to sub tropical tree, although it is originally from Africa, this is a tree that has been carried around the world and is now widely grown.
Grown commercially for the pods which are used in asian cooking, this is an attractive evergreen tree that could also be used as an ornamental. Will reach 20m in ideal conditions forming a broad rounded crown as in reaches maturity.
Semi evergreen in cooler conditions with a graceful slightly pendulous habit it is a tree that will grow well in Northern Australia where the distinct dry season provides the conditions it requires.
With a number of commercial uses it a tree that is underused in Australia and perhaps under appreciated.
The fruit is used to produce Tamarind Paste, Eaten Fresh and used to make Tamarind Tea, the timber is termite resistant and very strong. Products from the fruit are widely used in south east Asian and Indian cuisines.
Propagation is from seeds, also from cuttings. Most commercially grown varieties are grafted.
Growing Tamarind Trees in cooler climates.
In cooler climates, you can grow the Tamarind tree in a container and overwinter indoors or on a sunny enclosed patio.
Care
- Trees need to protected from frosts when young.
- Trees require water during summer
- Tolerant of coastal conditions
- Best in a fertile soil in tropical to sub tropical conditions.
Pruning
Tamarind trees can be pruned to shape and size if required, they can also be used as bonsai specimens where they form a very thick trunk.