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whitethorn acacia
Scientific Name: Acacia constricta var. constricta
Family: Fabaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Tree, Shrub
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Vachellia constricta (Whitethorn Acacia)
Vachellia constricta, commonly known as whitethorn acacia, is a plant found in Mexico and the Southwestern United States. It's also sometimes referred to as White-thorn acacia, Mescat acacia, or Mescat wattle.
Considerations for Pets
- The plant possesses thorns, which may pose a risk of physical injury.
- As a legume, it produces bean-bearing pods, which may be of interest to animals.
Considerations for Children
- The plant possesses thorns, which may pose a risk of physical injury.
- As a legume, it produces bean-bearing pods, which may be of interest to children.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Vachellia constricta (Benth.) Seigler & Ebinger (formerly Acacia constricta Benth.)
- Family: Fabaceae (Legume, Pea, or Bean family)
- Synonyms: Acacia constricta
Distribution and Habitat
Whitethorn acacia is native to Mexico and the Southwestern United States. It is also mentioned to be found in the Sonoran Desert. In its natural environment, it is typically a shrub, reaching tree size only when it receives additional rainfall, such as near a desert wash.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Typically an upright, woody, semi-evergreen shrub with multiple trunks.
- Can vary in size from a medium shrub to a small tree.
- Leaves are legume-type, made up of three to nine pairs of leaflets.
Ecological Role
The Whitethorn Acacia is often prized for its usefulness as a low-maintenance barrier or buffer plant when allowed to grow.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Buprestid beetles, also known as metallic wood-boring beetles, are often associated with this plant.
- May hybridize with viscid acacia (A. neovernicosa), though the likelihood is limited.