Vachellia Xanthophloea

Description

Vachellia Xanthophloea, also known as the fever tree, is a deciduous tree species that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to Africa and is commonly found near water sources such as rivers and lakes. The tree can grow up to 25 meters tall with a trunk diameter of up to 1.5 meters. The bark of the Vachellia Xanthophloea is yellowish-green and is smooth when the tree is young but becomes rough with age. The leaves are small, feathery, and light green in color.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Vachellia Xanthophloea has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other tree species. Its yellowish-green bark is smooth when young but becomes rough with age. The leaves are small, feathery, and light green in color. The tree can grow up to 25 meters tall with a trunk diameter of up to 1.5 meters. It has a conical shape and its branches are often drooping. The tree also has thorns that can grow up to 10 cm long.

Care Guide

Proper care is essential for the health and growth of the Vachellia Xanthophloea. Here is a care guide to ensure the tree thrives:

• Water: The tree requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. It is important to ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: The tree does not require excessive fertilization. A balanced fertilizer can be applied during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
• Soil: The Vachellia Xanthophloea thrives in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
• Sunlight: The tree requires full sunlight to grow and thrive. It should be planted in an area that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
• Hardiness Zones: The Vachellia Xanthophloea is hardy in zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Despite being a hardy tree, the Vachellia Xanthophloea is susceptible to pests and diseases. Here are some common ones to watch out for:

• Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellow or brown spots on the leaves of the tree. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Caterpillars: Caterpillars can eat the leaves of the tree, causing defoliation. They can be controlled with insecticides or by removing them by hand.
• Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf spot and defoliation. It can be controlled with fungicides and by removing infected leaves.
• Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the tree. Ensure that the soil is well-drained and that the tree is not overwatered.

Habitat

The Vachellia Xanthophloea is native to Africa and is commonly found near water sources such as rivers and lakes. It can thrive in a range of habitats, including woodlands, savannas, and grasslands. The tree is well adapted to arid and semi-arid conditions and can tolerate drought.

Question and Answer

Q: What is the significance of the yellowish-green bark of the Vachellia Xanthophloea?
A: The yellowish-green bark of the tree is significant as it reflects sunlight, helping to keep the tree cool in hot climates.

Q: Can the Vachellia Xanthophloea be grown in containers?
A: While the tree can be grown in containers, it requires ample space to grow and may not thrive in a confined space.

Q: What is the lifespan of the Vachellia Xanthophloea?
A: The tree can live for up to 50 years in the wild and up to 100 years in cultivation.

Q: Is the Vachellia Xanthophloea a threatened species?
A: The tree is not considered a threatened species, but it is protected in some areas due to its importance in the ecosystem.

Related Plants

• Vachellia nilotica
• Vachellia tortilis
• Vachellia seyal

References

• “Vachellia xanthophloea.” PlantZAfrica.com. South African National Biodiversity Institute, n.d. Web. 27 Apr. 2021.
• “Vachellia Xanthophloea.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 27 Apr. 2021.
• “Vachellia xanthophloea.” Flora of Zimbabwe. Mark Hyde, Bart Wursten, Petra Ballings, and Meg Coates Palgrave, 2011. Web. 27 Apr. 2021.