Vachellia karroo

Vachellia karroo, commonly known as the Sweet Thorn, is a species of Acacia native to southern Africa. It is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 12 meters in height. The tree is known for its distinctive thorns and sweetly scented yellow flowers.

Description

Vachellia karroo has a rounded crown, branching fairly low down on the trunk. It is variable in shape and size, reaching a maximum of about 12m where there is good water. The bark is red on young branches, darkening and becoming rough with age. Sometimes an attractive reddish colour can be seen in the deep bark fissures.

The thorns are paired and straight, white to brownish white, becoming dark and reddish brown with age. They are quite robust and sharp. The thorns are characteristic of the species and are a diagnostic feature.

The flowers are sweetly scented, small, yellow puffballs, appearing from August to January. The pods are straight, flat and pointed, with a conspicuous midrib and margins. They are green when young, becoming dark brown to blackish.

Distribution and Habitat

Vachellia karroo is widely distributed in southern Africa, from South Africa and Namibia to Zimbabwe and Mozambique. It is found in a variety of habitats, from desert and semi-desert regions to high rainfall mountainous areas. It is particularly common in the Savannah and Grassland biomes.

Uses

The tree has a variety of uses. The wood is used for fuel and for making implements and furniture. The bark is used in traditional medicine and tanning, and the gum is edible and used in food preparation. The leaves and pods are used as fodder, particularly in times of drought.

Conservation

Vachellia karroo is not considered to be threatened and is listed as 'Least Concern' on the IUCN Red List.

See also

• Acacia
• Savannah
• Grassland
• IUCN Red List

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