acacia tree species

Acacia, (genus Acacia), genus of about 160 species of trees and shrubs in the pea family (Fabaceae). Acacias are native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world, particularly Australia (where they are called wattles) and Africa, where they are well-known landmarks on the veld and savanna.

How many species of acacia trees are there?

They are legumes and can fix nitrogen in soil. Known as wattle in Australia, there are about 160 different varieties of Acacia, most with fine, feathery leaves and beautiful floral displays.

How many species of acacia are there in Australia?

Almost 1,000 species of acacia occur in Australia, making it the nation's largest genus of flowering plants.

What kind of tree is Acacia?

Acacia, commonly known as the wattles or acacias, is a large genus of shrubs and trees in the subfamily Mimosoideae of the pea family Fabaceae. Initially, it comprised a group of plant species native to Africa and Australasia, but it has now been limited to contain only the Australasian species.

How do I identify an acacia tree?

They often have many small oval leaves (called pinnate leaves) along their “leaflets.” This gives them the appearance of a double-sided comb. These leaflets attach to the main stem by a leaf stalk called a leaf petiole. Sharp, threatening thorns protect acacias precious leaves from herbivorous (plant-eating) animals.

Is acacia wood waterproof?

When properly treated with a weather-proof finish, acacia patio furniture can survive the elements for years or even decades. ... And when patio season is over, store them indoors under a waterproof cover to keep them protected until next spring.

Are acacia trees poisonous?

One interesting fact is that when browsed on by, for example giraffes, some acacia trees release a toxin known as tannin. This makes the leaves inedible and causes the animal to seek 'greener pastures'. The toxin can be quite dangerous to the animals if ingested and can be lethal.

Why is acacia wood in the Bible?

Acacia trees were used as raw material for the construction of the Tabernacle and for the building of its utensils: the Ark of the Covenant, the Altar and the Table and the Pillars of the Curtain.

Is Acacia a good wood?

Acacia wood furniture is a good, practical choice for both indoor and outdoor use. This is particularly true for furniture pieces that benefit from such a dense hardwood, such as dining tables and benches. Simple maintenance is all that's needed to keep it looking its best.

What are acacia trees used for?

The most common use is growing acacia for wood in the manufacturing of furniture. It is a very strong wood, so it is also used to make support beams for the construction of buildings. The beautiful wood is also used in carving for utilitarian purposes such as making bowls and for decorative uses.

What animals eat acacia?

Although large animals such as elephants, zebra, and giraffe feed on acacia, the researchers used Somali goats to simulate eating patterns from dawn to mid-day and focused on the most aggressive ant species, Crematogaster mimosae.

What does the acacia tree symbolize?

The ancient Acacia represents renewal, fortitude and pureness throughout the world. Some historians believe that the Tree of Life and the Burning Bush of biblical lore were both Acacia. ... In the Far East, various parts of the bush go into sacred incense for specific rituals.

Is acacia wood heat resistant?

Acacia wood gets its fire resistance because, like most species native to Australia, it had to adapt to the frequent brush fires endemic to the Australian climate. Australian acacia isn't fireproof, but the wood is naturally fire resistant.

Do all acacia trees have thorns?

Most acacia tree types are fast growers, but they usually live only 20 to 30 years. Many types of acacia are protected by long, sharp thorns and an extremely unpleasant flavor that discourages animals from eating the leaves and bark. ...

Where is acacia tree found?

Acacia, (genus Acacia), genus of about 160 species of trees and shrubs in the pea family (Fabaceae). Acacias are native to tropical and subtropical regions of the world, particularly Australia (where they are called wattles) and Africa, where they are well-known landmarks on the veld and savanna.

Where do acacia trees grow?

The majority of the species are found in Australia, but some acacia species are found in Africa, Europe, Asia, and North and South America. They are generally long-lived and fast-growing plants, often with deep roots that make them thrive under dry, drought conditions.

Can acacia wood be used outdoors?

Acacia is a dense, durable hardwood that can withstand the elements. ... If left unsealed, acacia should be reserved for deck or patio furniture, since constant contact with the damp ground of a garden may cause the wood to discolor.

Does acacia wood fade?

Acacia Wood Cons

It's high-maintenance compared to aluminum and many other metal construction materials, requiring a fairly intensive care regimen. If you place the wood in direct sunlight, it can cause fading and even cracking.

Is Acacia flooring good?

Acacia wood is an extremely durable flooring.

This rating is even higher than popular species like hard maple and oak, which are both known for their durability. This hardness means it holds up well to wear and tear. ... Depending on how thick your Acacia wood flooring is, it could last 50 to 100 years.

Can you eat acacia leaves?

Edible Parts: Its young leaves, flowers, and pods are edible raw or cooked. Other Uses: The bark is often used for its tannin content.

How do you kill an acacia tree?

Spray an herbicide containing either glyphosate or triclopyr at 50-percent concentration over the surface of the stump. Alternatively, drill holes into the top of the stump, and pour rock salt or Epsom salt into the holes.

Do zebras eat acacia trees?

Acacias are thorny scrubby African trees. Acacia leaves are an important food source for many of Africa's largest herbivores such as giraffes, zebras and elephants.