With airy, feathery leaves that fold up at night and a naturally sculptural shape, the Tamarind (Tamarindus indica) brings a little wild, tropical elegance to a sunny windowsill. Native to tropical Africa and long grown across Asia, in the wild it becomes a towering tree, but indoors it stays a graceful, slow-growing plant, often trained as an indoor bonsai for its fine foliage and characterful trunk.

It loves the light and rewards the brightest, warmest spot you can offer, making a refined green feature on a bright sill or in a conservatory. Prune gently to keep its shape and size in check.

Care at a glance

Light: Bright light, the more the better. A south-facing window or conservatory is ideal. It will not thrive in a dim spot.

Water: Keep the soil evenly moist in spring and summer. In winter, let the top layer dry before watering again. Always tip away excess water, as it dislikes sitting wet.

Soil: A free-draining mix is key. Blend standard houseplant compost with sand or perlite to keep the roots from getting soggy.

Temperature: A heat-lover. Keep it above 15°C, away from draughts and cold winter windows.

Pet note: Considered non-toxic, though it is always best to discourage nibbling for the sake of both pets and plant.

Supplied in a 12cm nursery pot in a jute basket as pictured. As a living plant, size and form vary from one to the next, so yours will be one of a kind.