Tamarind Bonsai Care

Tamarindus Indica

Found throughout the tropical world but believed to be originally from Africa and Asia. Tamarinds can grow to 90 feet and has a large umbrella shaped crown with fine, fern like compound leaves that emerge bright redish orange and change to light green. The bark of a mature Tamarind is furrowed.

In ground grown Tamarind, they will sometimes in early summer and often in the fall develop red buds which open to pale yellow three petaled flowers that are sometimes striped with red. These blooms are small and resemble orchid blooms. The blooms are followed by cinnamon colored scalloped pods that are edible and used in sauces, candies, beverages and other food items.

Use a well draining soil with organic mix added. Preferred ph is 5.5 Tamarinds can take a severe pruning to both branches and roots if done in the spring or early summer. The Tamarind will quickly sprout new branches from the trunk.

Repotting is preferrable done in spring after night temperatures stablilize in the low to mid 60's but can be repotted anytime throughout the summer.

Use an acid fertilizer weekly during the growing season and once a month during the winter. In early spring add a super phosphate to encourage blooming. Organic fertilizer is preferred.

Wiring can be done successfully on young branches and leaves can be reduced by defoliation several times during the growing season. This plant is a strong top grower, keep the top clipped or lower limbs will weaken and die back.

Seeds, cuttings and air-layering are all successful. The Tamarind is a slow grower, so obtaining a larger trunk is desirable.

The Tamarind is not drought tolerant. Regular watering is necessary for best results.

Full sun even after severe pruning of the roots and/or branches is best. The tree will respond sooner.

The Tamarind is tropical and needs to be protected when temperatures drop below 40 degrees F. The Tamarind has a moderate salt tolerance.