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Vachellia erioloba

by Johan Wentzel

Vachellia erioloba
Common Name
Camel-thorn acacia
Plant Type
Tree
This slow growing tree is extremely hardy, drought tolerant and can tolerate cold spells. It is suitable for large gardens, where it might grow up to 8m tall.
Plant Description

Vachellia erioloba varies between a 2 m shrub to a 16 m tree. The young tree has a shiny reddish brown stem while mature trees have a dark brown, rough bark. Spines can be found at the base of leaves and often have swollen bases which can grow up to 60mm long.  The branches are usually drooping and twisted. a Umbrella or rounded shaped crown is formed by hairless double compound leaves.  The Camel thorn's leaves are somewhat larger than that of other Acacia trees and it is also unique with its light grey velvety seedpods shaped like crescent moons. Golden yellow, sweetly scented ball-like flowers can be seen between late winter and summer, attracting birds and insects. The pods are high in nutrients and are often eaten by livestock.

Vachellia erioloba is a slow growing tree that s extremely hardy, drought tolerant and can tolerate cold spells. It can be suitable for large gardens, where it might grow up to 8m in an urban environment. However its roots are somewhat aggressive and the tap roots have been found at 45 m depth in boreholes. A sandy or well-drained soil is essential. Keep on the dry side.

You may find stock of this plant at Random Harvest nursery.

Afrikaanse Naam
Kameeldoring
Hardiness
Very hardy
Position
Sun
Water Requirements
Water wise
Evergreen
Semi-deciduous
Growth Rate
Slow
Flowering Time
Early spring
Flower Colour
Yellow
Shape
Umbrella
Soil
Sand
Plant Size
7m
Habitat
Grows in deep, sandy soil or along watercourses in arid regions of grasslands and the bushveld.
  • Vachellia erioloba

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Random Harvest Nursery: 082 553 0598

Jonathan Taylor: 0768305242

Email: [email protected]

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