Acacia nigrescens, Knob Thorn 10 Seed Pack + 30 FREE Ficus Bonsai Seeds + FREE Bonsai eBook - NEW

Acacia is a large genus, in the Fabaceae family, that contains over 1200 species of trees and shrubs from warm climates. Some are deciduous but most are evergreen. Over 700 species are native to Australia. There are 40 species, subspecies and varieties of Acacia indigenous to South Africa. They range from low-growing shrubs to tall trees and many have been introduced to other countries for economic and ornamental purposes. Acacias are also common in tropical and subtropical Africa; most African species are characterized by vicious spines and referred to as ‘thorn trees’.

The name Acacia is derived from "akis" meaning a point or barb. The flowers, ranging from deep golden yellow to cream or white, and crowded into globular heads or cylindrical spikes, are often fragrant and produce abundant, bee-attracting pollen. The fruit of Acacias are either round or flattened pods. They do well in most parts of South Africa, and resist all but the severest frosts. Many of them make suitable bonsai candidates and will grow well in pots. The hard coated seeds remain viable for up to 30 years. They should be treated by heating and soaking for germination in spring. In cultivation many species are fast-growing but short-lived (10-15 years). They do best in full sun and well-drained soil. Some will take part-shade. Prune to shape after their flowers have fallen. 

Acacia nigrescens commonly known as Knob Thorn in English and Knopdoring in Afrikaans grows from 5 to 18 meters in height and as the common names in English and Afrikaans denote, this tree has attractive, very characteristic thorns, which are knobbed. Acacia nigrescens is deciduous and the tree is usually leafless for the winter period and early spring. The leaf structure is distinctive of this species. There are only 4 to 6 leaflets per leaf and these are relatively large with tilted bases. Sometimes, when the new leaves start forming on the tree in spring, the new growth is bright red.