| Acacia polyacantha | |
|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| (unranked): | Angiosperms |
| (unranked): | Eudicots |
| (unranked): | Rosids |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Acacia |
| Species: | A. polyacantha |
| Binomial name | |
| Acacia polyacantha Willd.[1] |
|
| Synonyms | |
Acacia polyacantha, also known as White Thorn is a flowering tree which can grow up to 25m tall. Polyacantha has the meaning "many thorns" in Latin.[2] The tree is native to Africa, India, the Indian Ocean and Asia, but it has also been introduced to the Caribbean.[1]
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The root of Acacia polyacantha subsp. campylacantha (Hochst. ex A.Rich.) Brenan emits chemical compounds that repel animals including rats, snakes and crocodiles.[2]
The tree's gum is used in the manufacture of candy.[2]
A. polycantha's roots and perhaps its bark have medicinal uses. The root extract is useful for snakebites and is applied to wash the skin of children who are agitated at night time.[2]
The bark is useful for tanning.[2]
The tree's primary use is for wood.[3]