Manila Tamarind

(Pithecellobium dulce)

Description:
The manila tamarind is a fast growing, long lived tree that can grow to a height and spread of 20 m. The trunk grows with very sharp needles which helps to protects itself from animals while it is a seedling. The needles fall of from the main trunk when the tree gets large but remain on the branches. The leaves are small for such a large tree, they grow in pairs, each is oval shaped, 2-3cm long and 1-2 cm wide. The flowers are small, about 2 cm diameter and the fruit is a beanlike bulged pod curled up in a spiral that changes from green to red when ripe. Each pod contains from 6 to 10 black seeds each surrounded by white flesh. The white flesh tastes sweet and musky.

Uses:
The manila tamarind is usually eaten out of hand. In some countries it is used to make a beverage.

Health:

Climate:
Manila tamarind requires full sun. Trees can tolerate exceedingly hot conditions (above 40°C) and also cold conditions (less than 5°C) provided it is not prolonged.

Soil:
Manila tamarinds, like the sweet/sour tamarind, will tolerate a great diversity of soil types but does best in deep, well drained soils which are slightly acid. Trees will not tolerate cold, wet soils.

Propagation:
Manila tamarind seeds remain viable for months and will germinate in a week after planting.