Tamarind

A roadside tree in the tropics, in our region a robust container plant. The Tamarind originally comes from East Africa. Already in prehistoric times, the tree came to India, from where it spread as a useful plant to almost all tropical areas. The tree is suitable for all soils, except acidic soil. Once the tree is well established, it tolerates drought and the hot sun for a long time. It grows slowly. In our region, the plant must be kept in a pot, as it does not tolerate frost. The fruits are 7-20 cm long, dull brown pods (just like little mice!). The oval, hard seeds are embedded in dark brown, sweet-sour and aromatic-tasting pulp (delicious!). The plants usually bear fruit after 4-6 years. Tamarind syrup is made from the pulp of the fruits. Soft drinks are made from the syrup. The pulp is also an ingredient in various sauces, including Worcestershire sauce, and is an important ingredient in Asian cuisine. Fruits, bark and leaves are often used medicinally. Among various peoples, the tamarind tree has a mystical meaning or is considered sacred.

Names:
Latin: Tamarindus indica
Dutch: Tamarinde
English: Tamarind