Family: Leguminosae

This genus comprises about 20 species of tropical and subtropical trees and shrubs, generally grown as ornamentals, though some yield tannin and commercial timber. they have thorny stems, pinnate leaves, and heads or spikes of funnel shaped, five-lobed flowers, followed by flat, curved seed pods.

Species

P. arboreum, from Mexico, Central America and the West Indies, grows to a height of 20 m (65 ft). It has thick hark, long, slender leaves, and white flowers.

P. dulce, Manila tamarind or Madras thorn, from Central America, was introduced to tropical regions of Asia as a shade tree or thorny hedge. It is very useful in those areas, producing edible fruit and seed oil from which soap is made. The bark also yields tannins and the timber is suitable for fire wood.

Cultivation

Outside the tropics and subtropics, grow in a warm greenhouse, although plants are unlikely to be available outside countries of origin. Grow in a rich, well-drained potting compost and water well in growing season. Keep barely moist in winter. Propagate from seed or by air layering.

Climate

Warmest parts of zone 10 to tropical.