Acacia karroo (Sweet Thorn)
Foliage: Evergreen
Mature Height: 10’ - 15’
Mature Width: 10’ - 15’
Growth Rate: Moderate to Fast
Hardiness: 18 degrees F
Exposure: Full Sun
Leaf Color: Green
Shade: Dense
Flower Color: Yellow
Flower Shape: Ball
Flower Season: Spring
Thorns: Yes
Propagation Method: Seed
Sizes Available: Not in production
Acacia karroo is a dense canopy tree with a rounded crown to 10- 15 feet tall and wide. It has been know to grow in some native regions of Africa to 45 feet tall and wide. This tree is native to a broad climatic region in Africa from arid, to grassland, in alkaline soils and close to water courses. With its distribution it is a good indicator of where travelers could find water. The tree does not like acid soil or wet cold winter areas. When in bloom the tree is lit up with bright yellow ball shaped flowers, heavy in pollen and rich in protein for birds and monkeys. The tree provides good fodder, fuel and is considered a very good bee tree important to the honey producers. The tree is heavily armed and the Namibia indigenous name wittedoom translates to 'white thorn'.
The information provided here was gathered from research literature published by the University of Arizona, other professional landscape and horticulture organizations and our experience at Arid Zone Trees. Always consult local landscape experts for recommendations for your specific area.