What is river tamarind?

River tamarind (Scientific name: Leucaena leucocephala) is a species of fast-growing, nitrogen-fixing tree that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to Central and South America but is also widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide.

River tamarind is typically a small to medium-sized tree, reaching about 5-20 meters in height, with a dense, spreading canopy and deep roots. It has thin, delicate leaves that are bipinnate and oval in shape, and small, white or pale pink flowers that grow in clusters.

The fruit of river tamarind is a long, narrow pod, about 15-40 cm in length, containing up to 20 seeds. The pods are green when young and turn brown as they mature. The seeds are small, round, and dark brown or black.

River tamarind is widely used in agroforestry and as a source of forage, fuelwood, timber, and fertilizer. It is also used in traditional medicine for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-diabetic properties. Furthermore, it is an excellent source of plant protein, vitamins, and minerals.