Senegalia

Senegalia is a genus of flowering plants in the legume family Fabaceae, subfamily Mimosoideae. It comprises numerous species that were formerly placed in the broader Acacia genus; following taxonomic revisions, many African and Asian species were reclassified into Senegalia or Vachellia. The name derives from Senegal, reflecting the region where gum arabic is harvested from some species.

Description: Senegalia species are trees and shrubs, often spiny, with bipinnate leaves. Flowers are small and typically yellow to cream, arranged in dense, spherical or elongated inflorescences. The fruit is a pod, as in most legumes.

Distribution and habitat: They occur in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Americas, with many species adapted to dry savannas, woodlands, and dry forests. They are generally drought-tolerant and often important components of their ecosystems.

Uses and ecology: Several species are valued for human use: Senegalia senegal is the primary source of gum arabic; Senegalia catechu provides tannins used in tanning and traditional medicines and timber. They also contribute shade, fodder, and soil stabilization, and form symbiotic relationships with nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Some species may become invasive outside native ranges when introduced.

Selected species: Senegalia senegal (gum arabic tree); Senegalia catechu (khair).