Acacia Arabica, commonly known as Babul or Kikar, is a species of tree in the legume family, Fabaceae. It is native to Africa, the Middle East, and the Indian subcontinent, but it has also been introduced to other regions.
Size and Shapes: It typically grows to a height of 4-20 meters (13-65 feet), though in extremely harsh conditions, it may stay smaller. The tree’s most striking feature is its broad, flat-topped crown that forms an umbrella shape, which provides shade in desert and savanna environments.
Bark: The bark is rough, dark gray to brown, and becomes fissured with age, providing protection from heat and animals.
Leaves: The leaves are small, feathery, and bipinnate, they are divided into tiny leaflets. These leaves are well-suited to reduce water loss in hot, dry climates.
Thorns: Acacia tortilis has both straight and hooked thorns, which grow in pairs along its branches. These thorns deter browsing animals, although certain species like giraffes feed on the tree despite the spines.
Flowers: Small, fragrant, yellowish-white flowers appear in clusters, blooming after rainfall. They are rich in nectar and attract various pollinators.
Seed Pods: The tree produces spirally coiled seed pods, which are a nutritious food source for both wildlife and livestock. The pods contain seeds that are dispersed by animals.
Leaves: The leaves are bipinnate; they are composed of small leaflets arranged on either side of a common axis.
Flowers: The tree produces small, spherical, golden-yellow flowers that are fragrant. These flowers appear in clusters and are rich in nectar, attracting various pollinators.
Fruit: The fruit is a pod, containing several seeds. The pods are flat and curved, resembling a sickle in shape.
Habitat:
Acacia Arabica thrives in arid and semi-arid regions. It is drought-tolerant and can grow in poor soils, which makes it suitable for areas with challenging growing conditions.
Ecological Importance:
The tree plays a significant role in preventing soil erosion due to its extensive root system. It also improves soil fertility by fixing nitrogen, which benefits other plants growing in the vicinity.
This tree is highly valued in the regions where it grows, both for its economic and ecological benefits.
Specifications:
Height 2.5-3 meter and 3-5 meter
Caliper 50-100mm, 100-150mm & 150-200mm
Bags/Pots Both (50, 100 to 500 & 1000Ltr)
Spread 1-3 meter