Vachellia nilotica, commonly known as the gum arabic tree, is a deciduous to semi-evergreen tree native to savannas and sub-Saharan regions in Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and the Indian subcontinent. It typically grows to a height of 16-66 feet (5-20 meters) with a dense, spreading crown. The bark is dark and deeply fissured, providing a distinctive texture. The bipinnate leaves are a bright green, adding to the tree’s lush appearance. Vachellia nilotica blooms with golden-yellow flowers arranged in spherical heads, which are followed by strongly constricted, coiled pods that contain the seeds. Flowering usually occurs during the rainy season in its native habitat.

The gum arabic tree is valued for its multiple uses, including the production of gum arabic, a substance used in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. It is also used for its wood, fodder, and traditional medicinal applications. In cultivation, it is often used for shade or as an ornamental tree due to its attractive foliage and flowers. Vachellia nilotica prefers full sun and can tolerate a range of soil types, though it thrives in well-drained soils. It is drought-resistant once established, making it suitable for arid climates. However, it can be invasive outside its native range, and its thorns can be problematic in garden settings.CC BY-SA 4.0