Tamarindus indica in bloom
Tamarind and Guamuchil (Manila tamarind) are putting out their third set of flowers this year. The summer blossoms are the most abundant, producing the heavier crop. Although guamuchil is called Manila tamarind, it is not that closely related, despite both plants being legumes to the Tamarind tree. The name may originate from plants with fruits in pods and a slight resemblance in the leaves. However, the Manila tamarind plant has some small thorns. It grows fast and produces fruit within two of the seeds germinating.
The guamuchil is a legume with soil nitrogen-fixing properties. It requires very little care most of the year. However, watering once weekly produces larger fruit crops, even in potted plants. The tamarind trees do grow in the ground, as well as large pots. However, flower drop during prolonged drought or frost may lower crop yields, especially in windy conditions. Watering the trees once or twice weekly can significantly improve the harvest. The older the trees get, the less vulnerable they are to drought.
Both trees add beauty and functionality to the garden/ orchard. The domesticated trees appear to have different timings for fruiting than the wild trees.
