Manila Tamarind Live Plant (Pithecellobium dulce)

A species of quickly growing flowering plant belonging to the Fabaceae (pea) family is called Pithecellobium dulce. It is indigenous to Mexico, Central America, and northern South America’s Pacific Coast and nearby mountains. It can grow up to 18 metres tall, but typically only reaches heights of 10 to 15 metres. In the tropics, the tree is commonly grown as an attractive, shade-giving plant. It is also grown in South America for its fruit and seed. The seeds are enclosed in delicious, pulpy pods that can be consumed raw, boiled, or turned into a cooling beverage. At the bottom suture, the mature pods split open to reveal the tasty pulp. Due to this, the fruit must be consumed within a few days as it does not store well.

Common Name: Manila tamarind, Madras thorn, monkeypod tree or camachile

Botanical Name: Pithecellobium dulce

Bloom Time/Fruiting: 2 to 3 Years

Maintenance Required: Moderate