Tamarind

A roadside tree in the tropics, for us a strong container plant. The Tamarind originally comes from East Africa. In prehistoric times, the tree already 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. Here, the plant must be in a pot, because it does not tolerate frost. The fruits are 7-20 cm long, dull brown pods (like little mice!). The oval, hard seeds are embedded in dark brown, sweet and sour, and aromatically flavored pulp (delicious!). The plants usually bear fruit after 4-6 years. Tamarind syrup is prepared from the fruit pulp. 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