Tamarind Tree seeds
The Tamarind Tree (Tamarindus indica) is a striking tropical evergreen originating from Africa but now cultivated in warm regions around the world. This slow-growing tree boasts a beautiful vase-shaped canopy and feathery leaves, making it an ornamental favorite. Its most distinctive feature is the brown pod-like fruit, enclosing a sweet and tangy pulp prized for its culinary and medicinal uses. Tamarind finds its way into curries, refreshing drinks, candies, and traditional remedies for various ailments. The Tamarind tree's natural beauty and potential for shaping make it suitable for both houseplant cultivation and the intricate art of bonsai.
Seed count: 10
Botanic name:
Tamarindus indica
Plant spacing:
30-40' apart
Color:
Green foliage, brown pods
Sowing depth:
1/2 - 1"
Sun requirements:
Full sun
Utilization:
The flesh inside the pods can be made into drinks, candy, used in Southesast Asian and Latin dishes, or used as a medicine.
Frost hardy:
No
Maturity days:
5-7 years for fruits to bear
12-15 years for tree to fully mature
Life cycle:
Perennial
Can I start indoors:
Yes
Container friendly:
Yes
Other names:
Tamarin, Tamarindo, Tamarindus Indica, Tamariner, and Tamarinier
Hardiness zones:
10, 11
Growing Instructions:
Indoor Seed Germination:
- Gather your supplies: You'll need tamarind seeds, a pot with drainage holes, well-draining potting mix, a clear plastic bag, and a warm location (ideally around 75-85°F).
- Scarification (optional): To expedite germination, nick the hard seed coat with sandpaper or a nail file.
- Soaking: Soak the seeds in warm water for 24 hours to soften the coat.
- Planting: Fill your pot with potting mix and plant the seeds about 1 inch deep. Water gently and moisten the soil, not soaking it.
- Creating a Greenhouse Effect: Encase the pot with a clear plastic bag to trap moisture and warmth.
- Light and Warmth: Place the pot in a warm location with indirect sunlight.
- Germination Watch: Be patient! Germination can take 7-21 days. Maintain consistent moisture and remove the plastic bag once sprouts emerge.
Hardening Off (for Outdoor Planting):
Once your tamarind seedlings reach 3-4 inches tall and have several sets of true leaves, it's time to harden them off before transplanting outdoors:
- Gradual Acclimation: Take your seedlings outside for short periods during the day in a shaded location, gradually increasing the duration over a week.
- Wind and Sun Exposure: Slowly introduce them to wind and direct sunlight to strengthen their stems.
Outdoor Transplanting:
- Timing: Choose a warm day after the danger of frost has passed.
- Location: Select a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Tamarind trees prefer a slightly acidic soil pH.
- Digging: Dig a hole twice the width of the pot and slightly deeper.
- Planting: Gently remove the seedling from its pot and place it in the hole. Ensure the root ball sits level with the surrounding soil.
- Watering: Water thoroughly to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.
Indoor Houseplant Care:
- Light: Provide your tamarind with ample sunlight, ideally near a south-facing window.
- Watering: Water deeply when the top inch of soil dries out. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
- Potting Up: As your tamarind grows, repot it every 1-2 years into a slightly larger pot with fresh potting mix.
- Humidity: Tamarinds appreciate moderate humidity. Grouping your plant with others or using a pebble tray with water can help increase humidity levels.
- Fertilizing: During the growing season (spring and summer), fertilize your tamarind tree monthly with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength. Withhold fertilizer during the winter months.
Remember: Patience is key! Tamarind trees are slow-growing, so enjoy the journey of nurturing your tropical friend.
