Manila Tamarind trees, Camachile, Seema Chintakaya (Pithecellobium dulce)

Manila Tamarind trees, Camachile, Seema Chintakaya (Pithecellobium dulce)

Okay, let’s talk about Manila Tamarind trees ( 

Pithecellobium dulce ), also known as Camachile or Seema Chintakaya, in the context of Florida:

1. What is Manila Tamarind?

• Manila Tamarind (Pithecellobium dulce) is a fast-growing, nitrogen-fixing tree native to Mexico and Central America.
• It’s known for its edible fruit, which is a curved, pinkish-red pod that splits open to reveal a sweet, white pulp surrounding the seeds.
• The leaves are bipinnate and the flowers are fragrant, greenish-white, and form into round dense heads. 

2. Growing Manila Tamarind in Florida:

• Climate: Manila Tamarind thrives in Florida’s warm, subtropical to tropical climate (zones 9-11).
• Sunlight: Requires full sun for optimal growth and fruiting.
• Soil: Prefers well-drained soil and tolerates a range of soil types, including limestone and sandy soils.
• Watering: Water regularly, especially during establishment and dry periods. Once established, it’s drought-tolerant.
• Hardiness: Mature trees can tolerate brief periods of temperatures down to 28-30°F, but young trees need protection from frost.
• Growth Rate: It’s a fast-growing tree.
• Fruiting: It can fruit within 1-2 years from seed.
• Pruning: Tolerates excessive pruning in the summer. 

3. Potential Issues:

• Spines: Manila tamarind has thorns, especially on young shoots, which can make handling the tree challenging.
• Invasiveness: In some areas, particularly Hawaii, it’s considered an invasive species.
• Pests: Can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases. 

In summary, Manila Tamarind is a great addition to a Florida garden, offering delicious, sweet fruit and also acting as a shade or ornamental tree.