Tamarindus indica Seeds | Tamarind
LATIN NAME: Tamarindus indica
COMMON NAME: Tamarind, Indian Date
Plant Profile
Tamarindus indica, commonly known as Tamarind, is a tree in the pea family, native to tropical regions of the Africa, while it has been cultivated across the tropics for its fruit for thousands of years. In good conditions it grows to around Twenty-five metres. For the small amount of care it requires, the return is remarkable.
Science & Biotechnology
Research touching on Tamarindus indica ranges from the botany of the pea family to practical horticulture, including seed handling, propagation and the selection of superior forms. Tamarind has a real and distinguished place in research. Species like this one find a second career as research material, especially in propagation and breeding work.
Uses & Benefits
Beyond its ornamental appeal, Tamarind has the practical versatility that makes a plant worth growing from seed year after year. Its flowers feed bees and other pollinators, and its spreading, rounded crown gives a fine shade in tropical garden and landscape, while its sweet-sour, sticky pulp is a popular flavouring and food in tropical regions. To raise tamarind, sow seeds in pots of moist, open soil in a warm, bright place, keep them gently watered, and grow little trees on in the warmth. Given the right start, it carries on with minimal intervention.
Tamarind’s sweet-sour pod pulp is a gentle traditional laxative and the soul of countless sauces, rich in tartaric acid and polyphenols; the tree is a magnificent tropical shade.
Growing from Seed
Sow fresh seed of Tamarind under ordinary good conditions. Broadcast the seed thinly over a fine, free-draining compost, sieve a little more compost on top, and water with a fine rose. Prick the seedlings out once they are large enough to handle, grow them on in bright light, and plant out when conditions allow.
Our Take
The medicinal tradition behind this species, outlined above, is a large part of its interest. Tamarind, Indian Date earns its space through character rather than fuss. Sun, free drainage and a patient first year are all it really requires.
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