The Acacia is a type of shrub or deciduous tree that belongs to the pea family.
There are over 800 species of acacia that can be, found in Australia, and the tropical and subtropical areas of America, Asia, Africa and Europe.
Acacia grows on well-drained soil, in dry and sunny habitats.
Acacia trees are one of the most iconic trees in Africa.
It is, featured in thousands of silhouette sunset photos, this picturesque tree is inextricably linked with vast African savannas and epitomises the seeming exotic-ness of the continent.
The plant is an essential part of the food chain; it provides food and habitats for a variety of animals, such as hoofed mammals, birds and countless species of insects.
Another species the Acacia Senegal is found in Sudan and the northern Sahara.
It is the primary source of gum arabic, which has been, used for more than 2,000 years in paints and watercolours.
The substance is, also used in candy, medicines, calico printing, dyeing, and in the making of silk, paper, and cosmetics.
The African acacia protects itself in many ways. Most of the species have long, sharp thorns, which prevents many animals from eating their leaves.
Sometimes stinging ants live inside hollowed-out thorns, which provides another disincentive for predators.