Gum arabic tree
Vachellia nilotica · Fabaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around gum arabic tree and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- Winter and spring (November to April)
- Mature size
- 8 to 15 m in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Frost-tender, tropical to subtropical climate
- Origin
- East Africa and the Middle East
- Soil type
- Well-drained soil, tolerates poor soils
Care
Sunlight
Position your gum acacia in full sun to optimize its growth and flowering. This species is sun-loving and requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct light daily. In very hot regions, light afternoon shade can prevent summer dehydration.
Watering
Water regularly during the active growing period and in case of prolonged drought. Once established, gum acacia is drought-tolerant thanks to its deep root system. Avoid waterlogging the soil, which causes root rot.
Soil and drainage
Choose well-drained soil, even if poor or stony. Acacia thrives in sandy or clay-limestone soils. A light application of organic matter at planting improves rooting, though rich soil is not necessary.
Fertilization
As a Fabaceae, gum acacia fixes nitrogen from the air through its root nodules. Moderate fertilization in spring is sufficient, or even unnecessary on poor soil. Use balanced fertilizer or low-nitrogen fertilizer if needed.
Pruning and maintenance
Carry out balancing and cleanup pruning after flowering or in late winter. Remove dead, crossing, or poorly oriented branches to open up the crown. Gum acacia tolerates pruning well, but maintain its natural, upright shape.
Pests and diseases
Gum acacia is generally robust. Watch for thrips and scale insects in case of water stress. Anthracnose may appear with excessive humidity. Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Did you know?
The gum acacia is the national tree of Sudan and appears on its flag. Since ancient times, gum arabic extracted from its bark has been used in the textile, pharmaceutical, and food industries, making the fortune of trade caravans crossing the Sahara.
Where to buy it
Best planted in autumn so the roots settle in before summer, or in early spring once the frost has passed. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, October, November.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Chinese wisteriaWisteria sinensis
- Common broomCytisus scoparius
- Black locustRobinia pseudoacacia
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- Honey locustGleditsia triacanthos
- Hairy greenweedGenista pilosa
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.