Tamarindus indica
Tamarindus indica is a leguminous tree that is native to tropical Africa and naturalized in Asia. It belongs to the family Fabaceae and is the only species in the genus Tamarindus. The tree produces brown, pod-like fruits that contain a sweet, tangy pulp, which is used in cuisines around the world. The pulp is also used in traditional medicine and as a metal polish. The tree’s wood can be used for woodworking and tamarind seed oil can be extracted from the seeds. Tamarind’s tender young leaves are used in South Indian and Filipino cuisine. The tamarind is a long-lived, medium-growth tree, which attains a maximum crown height of 25 meters (80 feet). The crown has an irregular, vase-shaped outline of dense foliage. The tree grows well in full sun. It prefers clay, loam, sandy, and acidic soil types, with a high resistance to drought and aerosol salt (wind-borne salt as found in coastal areas). The evergreen leaves are alternately arranged and pinnately lobed. The leaflets are bright green, elliptic-ovular, pinnately veined, and less than 5 centimeters (2 inches) in length. The branches droop from a single, central trunk as the tree matures, and are often pruned in agriculture to optimize tree density and ease of fruit harvest
Planting: Tamarind trees can be grown from seeds, cuttings, or grafts. If you’re planting from seeds, soak them in water overnight to speed up germination. Sow the seeds 1/2 inch deep in good quality seed starting mix. Germination usually occurs within one to two weeks after sowing.
Watering: During the tamarind’s planting period, water it once every week. As fall and winter approach, watering should gradually decrease.
Mulching: Spread a 4-5 inch thick layer of mulch around the tamarind tree at the beginning of each spring. This helps protect the roots of the tree, prevents weed growth, and keeps the soil moist.
Pruning: Prune your tamarind tree regularly to control its growth and maintain its shape. The plant should be stripped of all injured and dead branches.
Fertilizing: Tamarind trees require regular fertilization to thrive. Apply a balanced fertilizer every three months during the growing season.
Harvesting: Tamarind trees usually start bearing fruit after 4-6 years if produced by grafting alternately; if developed from the seed stage, it will take well over 7-8 years for the plant to bear fruits. Harvesting is primarily done in March and April.
Here are some step-by-step instructions for taking care of Tamarindus indica:
Review
Related products
Contact Info
- Address: Love gardens LLC , nursery warsan 3, Dubai
- Phone: +971 567491900
- Email: [email protected]
