About Vachellia seyal (Delile) P.J.H.Hurter
Scientific Name and Leaf Characteristics
This species, Vachellia seyal (Delile) P.J.H.Hurter, has feathery leaves that measure 3–10 cm (1.2–3.9 in) long.
Thorn Structure
At the base of each leaf, two straight, light grey thorns grow, reaching 7–20 cm (2.8–7.9 in) in length.
Flower Characteristics
Its flowers form round, bright yellow clusters that are roughly 1.5 cm (0.59 in) in diameter.
Swollen Thorn Variation
The variety Vachellia seyal var. fistula, which is more commonly found on heavy clay soils, has some swollen thorns that act as domatia.
Ant Symbiosis
These domatia house mutualistic ants of the genus Crematogaster.
Native Range
Vachellia seyal is native to many countries across Africa, ranging from Morocco in the north to Mozambique in the south.
Habitat in Sahara
In the Sahara, it frequently grows in damp valleys.
Arabian Peninsula Habitat
It can also be found growing in wadis on the Arabian Peninsula.
