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Acacia tortilis ssp. heteracantha
Scientific Name: Acacia tortilis ssp. heteracantha
Family: Fabaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Vachellia tortilis
Vachellia tortilis, formerly known as Acacia tortilis, is a fascinating tree species with several recognized subspecies.
Common Names
- Umbrella Thorn Acacia
- Umbrella Thorn
- Israeli Babool
- Curly-pod Acacia
- Haak-En-Steek (Specifically for Vachellia tortilis subsp. heteracantha)
- Basterkameeldoring
Considerations for Pets
- This plant is often found in regions where wildlife reserves are common.
- Some subspecies can grow into trees with thorns and sharp edges, potentially posing a physical hazard to pets.
- Inner bark is used for cordage
- Young branches are used for bush fencing
Considerations for Children
- This plant is often found in regions where wildlife reserves are common.
- Some subspecies can grow into trees with thorns and sharp edges, potentially posing a physical hazard to children.
- Inner bark is used for cordage
- Young branches are used for bush fencing
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Kingdom: Plantae
- Family: Fabaceae (also mentioned as Leguminosae-mimosoideae and Mimosoideae)
- Genus: Acacia / Vachellia
- Taxonomic Rank: Subspecies
- Synonyms:
- Acacia raddiana Savi
- Acacia spirocarpa Hochst. ex A. Rich
- Acacia heteracantha
- Acacia likatunensis
- Acacia tortilis subsp. heterocantha
- Acacia pappii Gand.
- Alternative Scientific Names:
- Acacia tortilis (Forssk.) Hayne
Distribution and Habitat
Vachellia tortilis is found in various regions, including South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Angola. It thrives in environments such as the Kalahari Acacia-Baikiaea woodlands and the Tugela Dry Valley Bushveld. It is also found at the western foothills of the Lebombo Mountains.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Vachellia tortilis varies from multi-stemmed shrubs to trees reaching up to 20 meters in height.
- Subspecies exhibit different crown shapes: rounded (ssp. raddiana) or flat-topped (ssp. heteracantha and others).
- In cultivation, it typically reaches a final height of 3-5 meters.
- It has a distinct flat-topped, umbrella shape.
Ecological Role
Vachellia tortilis plays a crucial role in its native ecosystems, providing resources and habitat for various organisms. It co-inhabits with other tree species.
Uses
- The wood makes good firewood.
- The inner bark is used for cordage.
- Young branches are used for bush fencing.
Further Information
- The Plant List
- Wikimedia Commons
- Catalogue of Life