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prairie acacia
Scientific Name: Acacia angustissima var. suffrutescens
Family: Fabaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Subshrub, Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Acaciella angustissima: A Botanical Overview
Acaciella angustissima, commonly known as Prairie acacia, White ball acacia, Ocpatl, or Palo de Pulque, is a perennial, deciduous shrub or small tree appreciated for its drought tolerance and ecological benefits.
Considerations for Pets
- This plant is a shrub or small tree.
- Some sources mention it can be cut to the ground and re-sprouts.
Considerations for Children
- It is described as a low thornless North American shrub.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Acaciella angustissima
- Common Names: Prairie acacia, White ball acacia, Ocpatl, Palo de Pulque, Fern acacia, Texas acacia, Prairie guajillo, Prairie wattle, Whiteball Acacia.
- Family: Fabaceae (Pea or Legume family)
- Synonyms:
- Acacia angustissima (Mill.) Kuntze
- Acaciella hirta
- Taxonomic Rank:
- Variety: Acacia angustissima var. chisosiana Isely – Chisos prairie acacia
- Synonyme: Acaciella hirta
- Acacia angustissima (P. Mill.) O. Ktze. var. hirta (Nutt.) Robins.
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to Central America and the United States.
- Found in South Texas, occurring on various soil types.
- Its range extends from Belize through Mississippi.
Ecological Role
- It is a nitrogen fixer, contributing to soil improvement.
- Can be used for erosion control.
Morphological Characteristics
- A 1-4 ft. rounded sub-shrub with feathery, deciduous foliage.
- Features white, 1/2 inch, globe-shaped flower heads.
- Described as a low-growing, rounded shrub or sub-shrub with delicate foliage.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- In its native habitat, it is eaten by the larvae of the acacia.