Tamarind

Tamarind, common name for a tropical evergreen tree, of the legume family, probably native to tropical Africa. It is now found in fertile areas throughout the tropics. The tamarind is a large tree, attaining a height of 24 m (80 ft). The wood is extremely hard and is used in cabinetmaking. The tamarind is cultivated widely in tropical areas of the Eastern and Western hemispheres as an ornamental tree and for its acidic fruits. The pale yellow flowers, arranged in loose, terminal racemes, have a four-part calyx, five petals, three fertile stamens, and a solitary pistil. The fruit is a tapering, indehiscent (remaining closed at maturity), many-seeded pod. The pulp surrounding the seeds is sharp-tasting and has a laxative effect. When it is mixed with sugar and water, tamarind juice is a popular drink in Latin America.

Scientific classification: The tamarind belongs to the family Fabaceae (or Leguminosae). It is classified as Tamarindus indica.