A slow-growing, long-lived tree that may reach 24 to 30 m when mature. The Tamarind has dark grey, rough bark and branches that tend to droop at the ends. Evergreen under normal conditions, it may lose some leaves briefly during extended hot, dry periods. Its yellow flowers, sometimes streaked with orange or red, are fairly inconspicuous. They are followed by bean-like, irregularly curved and bulging pods borne abundantly along new branches. They may be from 5 to 15 cm long. This tree is the source of tamarind pulp and paste, used for culinary purposes (curries, chutneys, etc).