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Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.

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Acacia tortilis

Introduction

Umbrella Thorn Acacia (Acacia tortilis) also known as an Israeli Babool, is a medium to large canoped tree native primarily to the savannahs of Africa (especially Sudan), but also occurring in the Middle East. In extremely arid conditions, it may occur as a small, wiry bush. It grows up to 21m in height.[1] The tree carries leaves that grow to approx. 2.5 cm in length with between 4 and 10 pair of pinnae each with up to 15 pairs of leaflets. Flowers are small and white, highly aromatic, and occur in tight clusters. Seeds are produced in pods which are flat and coiled into a springlike structure.

The plant is known to tolerate high alkalinity, drought, high temperatures, sandy & stony soils, strongly sloped rooting surfaces, and sand blasting. Also, plants older than 2 years have been observed to be somewhat frost resistant.

Importance

Importance

Timber from the tree is used for furniture, wagon wheels, fence posts, cages, and pens. The pods and foliage, which grow prolifically on the tree, are used as fodder for desert grazing animals. The bark is often used as a string medium in Tanganyika, and is a source for tannin. Gum from the tree is edible and can be used as Gum Arabic. Parts of the tree including roots, shoots, and pods are also often used by natives for a vast number of purposes including decorations, weapons, tools, and medicines.[2]

Growing conditions

Growing conditions

Acacia tortilis tends to grow in areas where temperatures vary from 0-50 deg. C. and rainfall is anywhere from about 100-1000mm/yr.[3]

Subspecies

Subspecies

References

References

  1. ↑ World Agroforestry Centre
  2. ↑ Purdue University
  3. ↑ Handbook on Seeds of Dry-Zone Acacias FAO
  4. ↑ ILDIS Legumes of the World

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External links

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de:Schirmakazie he:שיטת הסוכך