Egyptian Thorn, Thorny Acacia, Prickly Acacia, Gum Arabic Tree, Scented Thorn
Vachellia nilotica
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Vachellia nilotica has various permaculture applications. The bark, pods, and leaves are rich in tannins and can be used for tanning leather, dyeing fabrics, and as a natural pesticide. The gum arabic is edible and used as a stabilizer and thickener in food and cosmetics. The tree is nitrogen-fixing, improving soil fertility and making it a valuable agroforestry component. It also provides shade and acts as a windbreak. The wood is strong and termite-resistant, suitable for construction and firewood. Flowers are a good source of nectar for bees.
Permapeople description
A thorny tree native to Africa and the Indian subcontinent. It is used for tannins, fuel, and fodder.
Botanical description
Vachellia nilotica is a thorny, evergreen to deciduous tree, typically growing 10-20 meters tall. The bark is dark brown to black, fissured. It has bipinnately compound leaves with 3-11 pairs of pinnae, each with 8-25 pairs of leaflets. The leaflets are small, oblong and glabrous. Flowers are borne in globose heads, bright yellow and fragrant. The fruit is a pod, typically constricted between the seeds, gray and velvety when mature. The tree has stipular spines, which are typically long and straight. It is adapted to arid and semi-arid environments.
Companion planting
Vachellia nilotica is a nitrogen-fixing tree, benefiting plants that require nitrogen-rich soil. However, its allelopathic properties can inhibit the growth of some plants nearby. Consider carefully the companion plants to ensure compatibility. Avoid planting close to plants sensitive to allelochemicals.
Propagation methods
Propagation is primarily through seeds. Seed scarification (nicking or soaking in hot water) is necessary to break dormancy and improve germination rates. Cuttings and air layering are also possible, but less common.
History and traditions
Vachellia nilotica has a long history of use in traditional medicine and cultural practices across Africa, the Middle East, and India. The bark, leaves, and pods have been used to treat various ailments, including diarrhea, dysentery, skin infections, and toothaches. Gum arabic has been traded for centuries and used in traditional art, medicine, and confectionery. In some cultures, the tree is considered sacred and used in rituals and ceremonies.
Usage calendar
Flowering typically occurs after the rainy season. Pods mature several months after flowering. Seeds can be sown throughout the year, but optimal planting time is during the rainy season. Pruning can be done during the dormant season.