Tamarind
Tamarindus indica
Plant Images
OneSeed Image
Description
Tamarind (Tamarindus indica) is a tropical tree native to Africa, now widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. It is a long-lived tree, reaching heights of 12 to 18 meters, with a dense canopy that provides excellent shade. In agroecology, tamarind is valued for its ability to improve soil fertility through nitrogen-rich leaf litter and its role in providing habitat for beneficial insects and birds. It serves as an effective windbreak and erosion control plant due to its extensive root system. Tamarind is often integrated into food forests as a mid-canopy layer, supporting biodiversity and enhancing ecosystem resilience. Historically, it has been used in traditional medicine and cuisine, particularly in South Asian, Mexican, and Caribbean cultures. Guild companions include nitrogen-fixing plants like pigeon pea and ground covers such as sweet potato, which help maintain soil moisture and suppress weeds.
Growing Details
Tamarind trees thrive in well-drained, sandy loam soils but are adaptable to various soil types. Prior to planting, enrich the soil with organic compost to enhance fertility. Mulching with organic matter helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as marigold can deter nematodes, while basil can repel aphids. Common mistakes include overwatering young trees and neglecting to prune, which can lead to poor air circulation and disease. Harvest tamarind pods when they are br
Edible Parts
Fruit
Seed
Seed Pod
Oil
Tags
Carbon Farming
Attracts Wildlife
Fire Wood
Building Wood
Windbreak
Erosion Preventing
Bee Friendly
Visual Appeal
Oil
Sweetener
Range (Based on GBIF Data)
The map shows known occurrence points of <strong>Tamarindus indica</strong> recorded in scientific biodiversity databases.
Source: <a href="https://www.gbif.org" target="_blank">GBIF.org</a> โ Global Biodiversity Information Facility
Location & Timing
native geo location: Native to tropical Africa, widely cultivated
applicable geo region: Tropical and subtropical regions worldwide
language used: en
Flowering:
middle
of April for 90 days
Harvest:
beginning
of October for 60 days
Seed Start:
beginning
of March
Indoor Start:
Transplant:
Uses & Benefits
Edible Rating:
(5/5)
edible uses: The tamarind fruit pulp is widely used in culinary applications, including sauces, marinades, drinks, and desserts. It is a key ingredient in Worcestershire sauce and is used to add a tangy flavor to curries and chutneys. The seeds, once roasted, can be ground into flour or used as a coffee substitute.
Medicinal Rating:
(4/5)
medicinal uses: Tamarind has been used in traditional medicine to treat digestive issues, fever, and sore throat. The fruit pulp is known for its laxative properties, aiding digestion and relieving constipation. It is also rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, supporting immune function. Caution is advised for those with low blood sugar, as tamarind can lower blood glucose levels.
health concerns: Excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort due to its laxative effects. Individuals with diabetes should monitor blood sugar levels when consuming tamarind.
other uses: Tamarind wood is dense and durable, used for making furniture and tools. The seeds can be processed to extract oil, and the leaves and bark are used in dyeing and tanning.
Scientific Literature
Loading scientific articles about <strong>Tamarindus indica</strong>...
Botanical data
specie: Tamarindus indica
common names: Tamarind; Indian Date; Imli
family: Fabaceae
sub family: Caesalpinioideae
tribe:
sub tribe:
genus: Tamarindus
Growing Conditions
area needed: 25.0 m
spacing: 8.0 m
growing difficulty: Medium
Deciduous / Evergreen:
Seed Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 20ยฐC / 30ยฐC
Plant Temp (Opt/Min/Max): 25ยฐC / 10ยฐC / 40ยฐC
water demands: Medium
humidity:
light demands: High
root type: Deep
frost tender: High
hardness:
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
โ
(10/10)
first harvest: 6 years
life span: 200 years
succession: Late
growth rate: Slow
max height: 18.0 m
max width: 7.0 m
soil preference:
Medium (Loam)
pH preference:
Neutral
flower type:
Hermaphrodite
growth details: Tamarind trees thrive in well-drained, sandy loam soils but are adaptable to various soil types. Prior to planting, enrich the soil with organic compost to enhance fertility. Mulching with organic matter helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Companion plants such as marigold can deter nematodes, while basil can repel aphids. Common mistakes include overwatering young trees and neglecting to prune, which can lead to poor air circulation and disease. Harvest tamarind pods when they are br
Potential Disturbances: Tamarind may face issues from aphids, scale insects, and fruit borers. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations. Neem oil and garlic sprays can deter scale insects. Planting garlic or chives nearby can help repel fruit borers. Regular monitoring and maintaining plant health through proper care are essential.
Permanent Link
Scan this QR code for a permanent link to this plant:
Download QR Code
Loading comments...