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knobthorn
Scientific Name: Acacia nigrescens
Family: Fabaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Knobthorn (Senegalia nigrescens)
The Knobthorn, scientifically known as Senegalia nigrescens, is a distinctive African tree recognized for its characteristic knobbed thorns. It plays a significant role in savanna ecosystems and is known by various common names.
Considerations for Pets
- The plant has woody spines (thorns) on its trunk and branches.
Considerations for Children
- The plant has woody spines (thorns) on its trunk and branches.
Common Names
- Knobthorn
- Knob Thorn
- Knoppiesdoring (Afrikaans)
- Chinanga (Shona)
- Gakaunga (Shona)
- Isinanga (Ndebele)
- Katopa (Ndebele)
- Muguhunga (Shona)
- Mukaya (Shona)
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Senegalia nigrescens
- Former Scientific Name: Acacia nigrescens (This is a synonym reflecting a change in taxonomic classification)
- Family: Fabaceae (implied, as Senegalia and Acacia are genera within this family)
- Rank: Species
Distribution and Habitat
- The Knobthorn is widely distributed in drier habitats.
- It is found in savanna regions from West Africa to South Africa, including Namibia and Tanzania.
- Specifically mentioned locations include Zululand, Kruger National Park, Mala Mala Game Reserve, and areas near Kapani Lodge.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- The Knobthorn is a deciduous tree.
- It can grow to be a medium to tall tree, reaching heights of 5 to 20 meters (approximately 16 to 66 feet).
- It exhibits a long cylindrical shape and a rounded crown.
- The most distinctive feature is the presence of knobs on the trunks and branches, which are actually thorn-tipped.
- The thorns are knobbed at the base.
- The seed darkens when it dries out.
Ecological Role
- The Knobthorn is found growing in wooded grasslands and savanna regions.
- It is noted to be part of an ecologically important thorn-tree family.
Interactions with Other Organisms
- Giraffes are mentioned as consuming the bottle-brush flowers, despite the presence of thorns.
- Elephants are known to take down Knobthorn trees.
- Common Dwarf Mongooses have been observed climbing Knobthorn trees.
- Nkuhuma lionesses have been observed resting in the shade of Knobthorn trees.
Cultivation
- Easily cultivated from seed.
- There are approximately 6,200 seeds per kilogram.
- Soak seeds in hot water and leave overnight before planting.