It is an attractive tree with potential in cultivation, with a dense crown of dark green leaves and masses of fruit in spring and summer.

[8][9] This species was first described in 1866 by the German born botanist Ferdinand von Mueller, who gave it the name Cupania diphyllostegia and published it in his work Fragmenta phytographiæ Australiæ.

The common names for this taxon refer to the well known Tamarind (Tamarindus indica) that is widely used in cuisines, due to the similarity of taste of the two.

The northern tamarind is endemic to Queensland, occurring from the top of Cape York Peninsula south through eastern coastal regions to near Ingham.

[1][2] The northern tamarind has become commonly cultivated due to its attractive crown of glossy, textured leaves and large crops of colourful fruit.