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Acacia Polyacantha (Hookthorn) (Ngowe/Chibombo)

Grows up to 20m. Shallow rooted with tap root, can be coppiced when young to improve form. Fast growing and short lived (30-40 years). Indicator of fertile soil and high ground water table

Loses leaves earlier that other acacias; flowers-cream spikes, fragrant, August to Dec. Produces and edible gum, used as a substitute for gum Arabic in confectionery, also as adhesive for mixing pigments for pottery. Roots have a strong smell said to repel reptiles; also used to treat snakebite and gonorrhea.

Bark used for tanning, and to treat sore throats, snake bite, and diarrhea. Ash from bark can be used as substitute for salt. Leaves have slight antibiotic qualities. Wood is termite resistant but susceptible to fungi; close grained and polishes well. Burns well, used for brick making.

Indigenous Tree


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