Acacia

Description

Acacia is a spreading, usually short tree with spines and alternate compound leaves. Its individual leaflets are small. Its flowers are ball-shaped, bright yellow, and very fragrant. Its bark is a whitish-gray color. Its fruits are dark brown and pod like.

Habitat and Distribution

Acacia grows in open, sunny areas. It is found throughout all tropical regions. (We find it here in the deserts of Arizona as well.)

There are about 500 species of acacia. These plants are especially prevalent in Africa, southern Asia, and Australia, but many species are found in the warmer and drier parts of America.

Edible Parts

Its young leaves, flowers, and pods are edible raw or cooked.

Edible Plants | Acacia