Vachellia planifrons
| Umbrella thorn | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Clade: | Rosids |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Subfamily: | Caesalpinioideae |
| Clade: | Mimosoid clade |
| Genus: | Vachellia |
| Species: | V. planifrons
|
| Binomial name | |
| Vachellia planifrons Wight & Arn.
| |
| Synonyms | |
| |
The umbrella thorn,[2] (Vachellia planifrons), is a species of Vachellia of the family Fabaceae. It is native to India and Sri Lanka.[3]
Description
Vachellia planifrons is a medium-sized tree that generally attains a height of 5–15 m (16–49 ft). The trunk , typically measures 30–60 cm (12–24 in) in diameter. Its bark is grey to brown in coloration and characteristically rough, often developing deep fissures that provide shelter for insects and nesting opportunities for birds. The branches are adorned with large thorns that act as a defense against herbivores. This tree also often produces a distinct flat-topped umbrella-shaped canopy.
The foliage consists of small, bipinnate leaves approximately 2–5 cm long. Each leaf is divided into numerous paired leaflets, giving it a fine, feathery appearance. The leaves are bright green and adapted to function efficiently under dry climatic conditions.
Flowering occurs seasonally, usually in late spring to early summer. During this period, the tree bears clusters of spherical, white blossoms that are notably fragrant.[4]
References
- ^ "Acacia planifrons Wight & Arn. — the Plant List".
- ^ "ILDIS LegumeWeb (version 10)".
- ^ "Multipurpose Tree Seeds : Acacia planifrons". Archived from the original on 20 October 2019. Retrieved 10 June 2015.
- ^ "Indian Umbrella Thorn (Vachellia planifrons) - Botanical Realm". www.botanicalrealm.com. 19 November 2024. Retrieved 18 February 2026.
External links
GROWTH RESPONSE OF ACACIA PLANIFRONS