Tamarind
Tamarindus indicafam. Fabaceae
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Pl. 3570 — Tamarindus indica
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IOverview
Overview
Tamarind (Tamarindus indica) is a tree native to Hainan and found in the Comoros and Madagascar. Known for its edible parts including flowers, leaves, seeds, and seedpods, it thrives in full sun with a preference for dry to moist conditions. This tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and adapts well to various soil types—light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay)—with a pH range of 4.5 to 8. Its distinctive feature is the long, brown seedpod that contains sweet, acidic pulp, making it both ornamental and useful for culinary purposes.
Quick answers
What is Tamarind?
Tamarind (Tamarindus indica) is a tree native to Hainan and found in the Comoros and Madagascar. Known for its edible parts including flowers, leaves, seeds, and seedpods, it thrives in full sun with a preference for dry to moist conditions.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Tamarind thrives in full sun and is adaptable to various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). It prefers dry to moist conditions and grows best in well-drained soils with a pH ranging from 4.5 to 8. The plant is hardy in temperate regions down to zones 10-12. For propagation, use seeds or cuttings. Harvest edible parts such as flowers, leaves, seedpods, and seeds. Regular watering during dry periods is essential for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Habit
Tree
Mature size
20.0 m tall
Soil pH
4.5–8
For first-time growers
How to grow Tamarind for the first time
8steps
Start with a young tamarind tree for the best beginner experience.
- 1
What you'll need
A young tamarind sapling, well-draining soil, and a large pot or garden space.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when temperatures are consistently above 20°C (68°F).
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH between 4.5 and 8, and prepare a large pot or garden bed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant a young sapling into your prepared location or pot, ensuring it has enough space to grow.
- 5
First two weeks
Water the tamarind regularly but avoid overwatering. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and regular watering during dry periods, especially in the first year. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune to shape the tree and remove dead branches. Harvest seedpods when they turn brown and dry.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight, and neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeavesSeedSeedpod
Edible uses: Coffee, Drink
Other uses:AdhesiveFire starterDyeAnimal feedLumberInkLightingPaintPest controlPlant supportPolishWind breakerTanninVarnishNitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
3 native · 27 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 27 introducedDistribution across3 continents· 3 native· 27 introduced
Asia3 regions
introduced (3)CambodiaChinaIndia
Americas5 regions
introduced (5)BahamasBelizeBoliviaColombiaCosta Rica
Africa11 regions
native (2)ComorosMadagascar
introduced (9)AngolaBeninBurkina FasoBurundiCabo VerdeCameroonChadComorosMadagascar
Broader regions
native:Hainan
introduced:Aldabra, Andaman Is., Bismarck Archipelago, Aruba, Caroline Is., Cayman Is., Central African Repu, Chagos Archipelago, Christmas I.
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Fabaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fabaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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Growing zone
XII
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