Description : Growing to a height of between 7 to 10 metres in the garden, the Small-leaved Tamarind forms a handsome tree with a dense crown which provides excellent shade and shelter.
Flowers are small, cream-brown, borne on multi-branched panicles and occur from November to January.
Fruits are large (to 6cm across) and quite spectacular, 3-lobed capsules that split open when ripe to reveal the seeds covered by the bright red or sometimes yellow, fleshy aril. Fruiting occurs between February to March and individual trees are capable of producing many kilos of fruit.
Uses : The aril or the flesh around the seed is the edible part which is refreshingly acid to taste. Its distinctive, tarty flavour lends itself to both sweet and savoury applications. It can be made into jams, jellies, drinks and sauces.
This tree is rare & endangered in its native habitat.