Tamarind, << TAM uhr ihnd, >> is a large evergreen tree that grows in the tropics. It is native to Asia and, probably, to Africa. The tree may grow 75 feet (23 meters) tall. It has leaves that consist of 10 to 18 pairs of leaflets and small, pale yellow flowers. The tamarind tree produces brown pods that are 2 to 6 inches (5 to 15 centimeters) long. The pods of the tamarind contain an acidic pulp that may be eaten fresh or used to make jams, sauces, syrups, and drinks. The seeds of the tamarind may be roasted and eaten. The tamarind is grown as a shade tree in southern Florida.
