Three hooked acacia

Three-hooked acacia: The curved thorns of the three-hooked acacia (Acacia senegal), normally grow in threes at the nodes, hence the common name. Branches from this deciduous V-shaped shrub project from near the base. As small trees they can grow up to 4.5m, especially as the spreading crown matures. Their numerous habitats range from Epupa Falls south through Kaokoland, into regions of Etosha National Park and south through Damaraland into central and south-central Namibia.

Curved thorns, grey-green leaves and the 60mm long spike of the inflorescence grow on silvery branchlets. From October to January this plant displays pale yellow to cream-coloured flowers, although they are present throughout the year. A thin yellowish pod produces brown seeds.

Although livestock and game are attracted to the pods and leaves a number of other mammals use this plant as a food source. White rhino browse entire branches and elephants are partial to the bark. Medicinal uses for humans cover ailments such curing colds, diarrhoea and eye infections.