Vachellia nilotica subsp. indica, commonly known as Babul or Prickly Acacia, is a thorny, perennial tree that can grow up to 20 meters in height. It features a dense, rounded crown and a trunk with dark, rough bark. The leaves are bipinnate, with small, feathery leaflets. The tree produces small, yellow, fragrant flowers in spherical clusters, and its fruit is a long, flat pod containing several seeds.
Habitat
Native to Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan, Vachellia nilotica subsp. indica is also cultivated in countries like Angola, Egypt, Ethiopia, and Tanzania. It thrives in arid and semi-arid environments, often found in savannahs, dry forests, and along riverbanks.
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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Timber: The wood is used for making furniture, tools, and as firewood.
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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 produced by the tree is edible and is sometimes used in traditional sweets and other culinary applications.
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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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