Abstract
The manila tamarind is a fast-growing, long-lived tree that can grow to a height and spread of 20 m. It is known by the name “Madras thorn,” but it is not native to Madras. The name “Manila tamarind” is misleading, since it is neither closely related to tamarind nor native to Manila. Genus Pithecellobium derives from the Greek words “pithekos” (ape) and “lobos” (pod) and the species name “dulce” from the Latin “dulcis” meaning sweet (Anonymous, Taxon: Pithecellobium dulce (Roxb.) Benth. Germplasm resources information network. United States Department of Agriculture, 23 Aug, 1994). Manila tamarind is a tree 5–18 m high, with pendulous branches, with short, sharp stipular spines. In India, the bark of the plant is used as astringent in dysentery, febrifuge, and also for dermatitis and eye inflammations. Leaves are used as abortifacient. The leaves are the source of fodder and the fruits are consumed fresh. It is a rich source of protein and fixes atmospheric nitrogen.
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Hiwale, S. (2015). Non Traditional Crops: Manila Tamarind (Tamarindus indica L.). In: Sustainable Horticulture in Semiarid Dry Lands. Springer, New Delhi. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-81-322-2244-6_20
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-81-322-2244-6_20
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