The Guamuchil tree (or Manila Tamarind) is a flowering evergreen & thorny tree that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is a fast-growing tree first introduced as a shade tree in dry lowlands and eventually became naturalized in many areas. It is native to Mexico, Central America, and northern South America. It can grow to heights of 20-50ft. It has white flowers in summer.
The seed pods contain a sweet pulp that can be eaten raw, roasted or prepared in a sweet drink similar to lemonade. The wood is used for paneling, boxes, crates, wagon wheels, general construction, posts and fuel. Guamuchil is also known as a good forage plant for honey bees. In Asia, Guamuchil is used as a source for various medicinal products, timber, tannins and dyes.
