Buy Fresh and Hardy Inga Dulce, Pithecollobium Dulce, Madras Thorn, and Manila Tamarind Plants Online!

I. Introduction

A. Botanical Information

• Scientific name: Pithecellobium dulce
• Family: Fabaceae
• Common names: Madras Thorn, Manila Tamarind, Sweet Inga, and Camachile

B. Origin and Distribution

• Native to Central and South America
• Widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions across Asia

C. Characteristics

• Deciduous tree with a spreading crown
• Grows up to 15-20 meters in height
• Compound leaves with 2-4 pairs of leaflets
• Flowers: White or pale pink, fragrant
• Fruit: Pod-like, 10-15 cm long, with a sweet pulp

II. Plantation

A. Propagation

• Seed germination
• Cuttings
• Air layering

B. Soil Requirements

• Well-drained, loamy to sandy soil
• Tolerates a wide range of pH levels (5-8)

C. Planting Time

• Late spring to early summer

III. Growing

A. Sunlight Requirements

• Full sun to partial shade

B. Watering

• Moderate, allowing soil to dry between waterings

C. Fertilizing

• Apply balanced, slow-release fertilizer during growing season

D. Pruning

• Prune to maintain shape and remove dead or diseased branches

IV. Care

A. Pests and Diseases

• Monitor for aphids, whiteflies, and caterpillars
• Watch for fungal and bacterial infections

B. Cold Hardiness

• Not cold-hardy; protect from frost and freezing temperatures

V. Benefits

A. Nutritional Value

• Rich in vitamins A, C, and K
• Good source of minerals, such as calcium, iron, and potassium

B. Culinary Uses

• Sweet pulp consumed fresh or used in desserts and beverages
• Seeds can be roasted and eaten

C. Medicinal Uses

• Traditionally used to treat digestive issues, inflammation, and skin conditions

D. Ornamental Value

• Attractive landscape tree for tropical and subtropical gardens

E. Ecological Benefits

• Nitrogen-fixing species; improves soil fertility
• Provides habitat and food source for birds and other wildlife