I am a tropical tree producing sour pods used in food and medicine.

Native to Africa, naturalized in India; cultivated widely in Gujarat, Maharashtra, and South India.

Minimal; drought-tolerant once mature.

Requires full sun.

Thrives in 25–40°C; tolerates dry heat.

Plant in sandy-loam soil; spacing 8–10 meters apart.

Apply compost annually; minimal fertilizer needed.

Botanical name: Tamarindus indica; Family: Fabaceae.

Fruits safe; seeds edible when processed.

Moderate; large canopy reduces dust.

Pulp rich in tartaric acid, vitamins, and antioxidants; used in curries, chutneys, drinks, and Ayurveda.

Susceptible to pod borer, leaf spot, and termites; prune for airflow and monitor regularly.

Can live 80–100 years; starts fruiting in 6–8 years; peak yield from year 15 onward.