Tamarindus indica Leguminosae

The tamarind, Tamarindus indica L. (family Leguminosae), is a widely distributed tree spice which is also grown as a shade tree on highways. It is one of the most important multi-purpose tree species in the Indian subcontinent. It is a large evergreen tree with an exceptionally beautiful spreading crown and is cultivated throughout almost the whole country, except in the Himalayas. It is cultivated in more than 53 countries in the world. 

Hockin, G.D. (1 993) Trees for Drylands. Tamarindus indica L., Family Leguminosae Caesalpinoideae. Oxford and IBH Publishing Co., New Delhi, pp. 305-307. 

Troup, R.S. (1 921) The Silviculture of Indian Trees. Leguminosae (Carsalpinieae) to Vorbenaceae. 7.Tamarindus indica L. Clarendon Press, Oxford, UK, 263-363. 

Tamarind, Partially dried ripe fruit of Tamarindus indica L., Leguminosae, preserved in sugar or syrup. Habit. East Indies, India, Africa naturalized in West Indies, Cort-stit The pulp contains about 10% tartaric acid, also some citric and malic acids 25-40% invert sugar, pectin. Review Rao, Srivastava, in Industrial Gums, R, L. Whistler, Ed, (Academic Press, New York, 2nd ed., 1973) pp 369-411. 

Tamarindus indica (family Leguminosae Caesalpinoideae) This is the tropical and subtropical species, now distributed worldwide but probably originated in tropical Africa. It is mainly cultivated in the Indian subcontinent. Fruit pulp is eaten fresh or processed into drinks and sauces (used commercially as an ingredient of Worcester sauce). The kernels are a source of a gum, which is used as a thickening agent. 

---