Vachellia leucophloea, commonly known as the White-Bark Acacia, is a thorny, deciduous tree that can grow up to 35 meters tall. It features a spreading crown and a trunk that can be 35 to 100 cm in diameter. The bark is smooth and white, giving the tree its common name. The leaves are bipinnate, with small leaflets arranged along a central stem. The tree produces small, yellowish flowers in clusters, and its fruit is a pod containing several seeds.
Habitat
Native to South and Southeast Asia, including countries like India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia, Vachellia leucophloea is commonly found in dry forests, savannahs, bush woodlands, and desert ecosystems, often on soils with poor to moderate fertility.
Planting and Care
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Propagation: Can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in well-drained soil and kept moist until germination.
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Soil: Prefers well-drained soil but can tolerate poor soils due to its ability to fix nitrogen.
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Watering: Requires regular watering, especially during dry periods, but is relatively drought-tolerant once established.
Additional Information
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Economical Values:
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Medicinal Uses: Various parts of the tree are used in traditional medicine to treat ailments such as coughs, sore throats, and skin diseases.
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Gum: The gum is edible and is sometimes used in traditional sweets and other culinary applications.
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Ornamental: Planted as an ornamental tree in parks and gardens due to its attractive bark and foliage.
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Wildlife Significance:
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Habitat: Provides shelter and nesting sites for various bird species.
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Food Source: The seeds and pods are consumed by birds and small mammals.
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