Vachellia nilotica

Vachellia nilotica (commonly known as gum arabic tree, babul, thorn mimosa, Egyptian acacia or thorny acacia) is a tree in the family Fabaceae. It is native to Africa, the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent. It is also currently an invasive species of significant concern in Australia.

Description

Vachellia nilotica is a tree that can grow up to 5–20 m high. It has a dark brown to black deeply fissured bark, which is strongly scented. The tree has a rounded crown and its branches are armed with paired hooked thorns. The leaves are bipinnate, with 3–6 pairs of pinnulae and 10–30 pairs of leaflets per pinna. The flowers are yellow and fragrant, arranged in dense globular inflorescences. The fruit is a legume, which is slightly curved and prickly.

Distribution and habitat

Vachellia nilotica is native to the dry savannah regions of sub-Saharan Africa, as well as Oman, Pakistan, west and southern India. It has also been introduced outside its native range, to parts of Australia, where it is considered an invasive species.

Uses

The tree has a wide range of uses. Its wood is used for fuel and construction. The bark and seeds are used in traditional medicine, and it is also a source of gum arabic, a substance used in various products, including food, cosmetics, and art supplies. The tree is also used for land reclamation and to prevent soil erosion.

Ecology

Vachellia nilotica is a hardy tree that can tolerate a wide range of soil types, and is resistant to drought. It is a host plant for several species of butterflies and moths, and its flowers are pollinated by various insects.

Conservation

While the tree is not currently considered threatened, its populations in some areas are declining due to overexploitation and habitat loss.

See also

• List of Acacia species
• Invasive species in Australia

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