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Vachellia robusta (Acacia robusta)

by Johan Wentzel

Vachellia robusta (Acacia robusta)
Common Name
Splendid thorn
Plant Type
Tree
It does not become very big and can be used in smaller gardens or other small enclosures.
Plant Description

Vachellia robusta is a single trunked high branching deciduous tree common in the warm dry savannas. It is found growing naturally in a variety of habitats among other different plant communities. This tree reaches a mature height of about 10m. Its distribution in South Africa stretches from KwaZulu-Natal to the North West Provinces.

 

Vachellia robusta has sturdy ascending branches and a somewhat irregular spreading crown. The crown can be quite dense. Although deciduous it is only without leaves for a short period in late winter.

Vachellia robusta prefers a well-drained soil.

Vachellia robusta is a single trunked high branching deciduous tree common in the warm dry savannas. It is found growing naturally in a variety of habitats among other different plant communities. This tree reaches a mature height of about 10m. Its distribution in South Africa stretches from KwaZulu-Natal to the North West Provinces.

The main stem is grey to blackish in colour with rough hairy branches. This tree is characterised with white thorns that are straight and paired. The dark green glossy leaflets are borne on woody cushions. Flowers appear as creamy white pompons on the tree from July to October, followed by greyish brown straight and broad seedpods decorating the tree from November to August.

The main stem is grey to blackish in colour with rough hairy branches. This tree is characterised with white thorns that are straight and paired. The dark green glossy leaflets are borne on woody cushions. Flowers appear as creamy white pompons on the tree from July to October, followed by greyish brown straight and broad seedpods decorating the tree from November to August.

The broad pod robust thorn tree is fast growing with a growth rate of about 1m per year, it is resistant to frost and drought. In landscapes, Vachellia robusta is commonly grown as a garden tree and occasionally as bonsai. This tree is also ideal for screening and hedging. The strongly scented flowers attract bees and butterflies, and many other insects making this tree suitable for wildlife gardens. It is also believed to be effective in repelling snakes.

Afrikaanse Naam
Enkeldoring
Hardiness
Very hardy
Position
Sun
Water Requirements
Water wise
Evergreen
Deciduous
Growth Rate
Moderate
Flowering Time
Spring
Flower Colour
Cream
Shape
Upright
Soil
Loam
Plant Size
5m
Region
Gauteng, Limpopo, North West
Habitat
Grassland, Savannah
Grown by Wildflower Nursery
Yes
  • Vachellia robusta (Acacia robusta)

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