 Acacia mellifera Seed
Common Names: Black Thorn - Swaarthaak 
The Acacia mellifera is generally a low branched tree that can be multi-stemmed. Leaves bipinnately compound (twice divided) Spines present, at least some, if not all recurved.
The word Acacia comes from Acantha which means Thorn
The species name: Mellifera means “honey bearing” and refers to the flowers.
Flowers: Spring
Features of the Black Thorn (Swaarthaak) or Acacia mellifera
The black thorn acacia grows in large uniform groups especially in disturbed and overgrazed areas.
Small low branching tree, dense tangled canopy.
Hooked thorns are black
Creamy white flower – balls cover the tree in spring before the leaves appear.
Pods: Flat bean pods are papery, dehiscent.
Animals uses for the Acacia mellifera
Valuable fodder tree on game and cattle farms
The leaves, young branchlets and pods are very nutritious containing a high percentage of protein.
Browsed by Black Rhino, Giraffe, Eland, Kudu and many others.
Flowers eaten by Kudu
Human uses for the Black Thorn or Swaarthaak
Wood used for axe and pick handles.
Heartwood is termite and borer proof, larger stems therefore make excellent fencing posts
Sap was mixed with a powdered grub for use on Khoisan poison arrows.
Gum is edible and sometimes mixed with clay to make floors.
Extractions made from roots used for stomach pains and to treat gonorrhoea.
Extracts from roots and leaves used to treat colds, eye inflammation, diarrhoea and bleeding. The bid amount is for 1 Seed 
We'll supply you with all the germination and care instructions. 
Let us guide you, through our knowledge and experience, so you too can have the confidence to start this rewarding hobby. We will supply you with the germination and care instructions for all our seeds and it is our mission to always deliver the best advice and go the extra mile to satisfy our fellow grower's needs. We have to warn you, it becomes a life-time hobby. The rewards are just overwhelming sometimes. Seeing the first seeds sprout and eventually turn into beautiful flowering plants or training a young tree, that you have grown from seed, int bonsai is a truly amazing experience. It's an extension of yourself... a legacy. Something that, with proper care, will keep evolving and growing long after you're gone. |
