Vachellia nilotica (formerly Acacia nilotica), known as the Gum Arabic Tree, is a pioneer species native to Africa, the Middle East, and the Indian subcontinent. This hardy legume features bipinnate leaves and bright golden-yellow globular flowers. The hard seed coat requires pre-treatment to achieve high germination rates.
Before sowing
Seeds require pre-treatment due to hard seed coat. Acid treatment (120 min) or hot water effective. Fresh seeds may germinate without treatment.
Sowing
What to expect
Tips
Seeds are best sown when fresh and moist. If storing, seeds develop hard coats and require scarification. Seedlings develop rapidly with a strong taproot; use separate containers for each seed. Requires full sunlight and free-draining soil after germination. Tree is extremely drought resistant and tolerates heat well.
Sources: Plants of the World Online (Kew Science), Tropical Plants Database, PlantZAfrica, PFAF Plant Database, Plantiary, FAO Handbook on Seeds of Dry-Zone Acacias, Research publications on African Acacia germination
