Manila Tamarind, Madras Thorn

Pithecellobium dulce

Physical Characteristics

Pithecellobium dulce is an evergreen Tree growing to 15 m (49ft) by 15 m (49ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. The flowers are pollinated by Bees. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline and saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerates strong winds but not maritime exposure.

Distribution

S. America - Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela; C. America - Panama to Mexico; Caribbean.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Fruit Oil Seed Seedpod Edible Uses: Drink Gum Oil The pods contain a sweet, pulpy flesh that surrounds the seed[301 ]. This flesh can be eaten raw, boiled or made into a refreshing beverage that is suggestive of lemonade[301 , 303 , 331 ]. The pods are 10cm long by 1.5cm wide[200 ]. When mature, the pods split open at the lower suture exposing the edible pulp. For this reason the fruit does not keep long and has to be consumed within a few days[306 ]. Seeds - raw or eaten in curries[301 , 303 ]. An oil is obtained from the seed[301 , 303 ].

Medicinal Uses

Abortifacient Antidiarrhoeal Antiinflammatory Dysentery Febrifuge The leaves can be used as a plaster to allay pain even from venereal sores, and can relieve convulsions. A paste made from the leaves is applied externally to treat muscular swellings caused by some inflammations[272 ]. The leaves together with salt can cure indigestion and, in larger doses, can also induce abortion[272 , 306 ]. The bark of the root is a good remedy for diarrhoea and dysentery[272 , 306 ]. The bark is used medicinally as a febrifuge[303 ]. The fruit pulp is taken orally to stop blood flow in case of haemoptysis[303 ]. The seed juice is inhaled into the nostrils against chest congestion and pulverised seeds are ingested for internal ulcers[303 ].

Known Hazards

The bark contains irritating substances, which can cause eye infections[306 ]. (Danger: Handling plant may cause skin irritation or allergic reaction Plant has spines or sharp edges; use extreme caution when handling )