5 Seeds Pithecellobium dulce Manila Tamarind Sweet Fruit Tree

Manila Tamarind (Pithecellobium dulce) is a versatile tropical tree grown from seed, valued for its attractive, fern-like foliage and rounded, spreading canopy. This hardy, evergreen species produces curious, twisted, pinkish seed pods filled with a sweet, edible pulp that encircles the dark seeds. An excellent choice for gardeners seeking a unique ornamental and fruit-bearing specimen, it thrives in warm, dry climates and makes a striking addition to large landscapes or as a shade tree in tropical and subtropical gardens.
The pulp inside the pods can be eaten fresh as a snack, and the tree is commonly cultivated for its shade, windbreak, or ornamental appeal. It develops a dense crown with small, delicate leaflets, and its low water needs make it a practical choice for water-wise planting once established. As a fast-growing legume, it also helps enrich poor soils naturally. Suitable for warm regions, it can be container-grown for a few years before planting out in the ground.
Species: Pithecellobium dulce
Variety: Manila Tamarind
Type: Tree
Plant Habit: Spreading, evergreen
Sun: Full sun
Soil: Well-drained, sandy to loamy, tolerant of poor soils
Days to Harvest: 4-6 years from seed
Zones: 9-11 (tropical and subtropical)
Germination: Scarify seeds, soak overnight in warm water, plant 1/4 inch deep
Sowing: Start indoors or direct sow in warm season
Spacing: 20-30 feet apart
Notes: Seeds are viable for several years if stored dry and cool.