Tamarindus indica (Tamarind)

Native to Comoros and Madagascar, this evergreen tree in the pea family can reach about 100 feet tall. Its spreading crown bears compound leaves with small paired leaflets that close at night. Yellow or cream flowers have red veins, three prominent petals, and two tiny reduced petals. Brown pods contain sticky, sweet-tart pulp eaten fresh or used in drinks, chutneys, curries, and sauces. Tender shoots and flowers are also eaten, and the wood is used for furniture. It has naturalized in Florida, United States, and is invasive in northern Queensland, Australia. Photographed in the department of Atlantico, Colombia.