Water thorn

Water thorn: Water thorn (Acacia nebrownii) are shrubs associated with Etosha Pan. They also have a wide distribution range covering, central, central-eastern and southern Namibia. In this region they grow in depressions, on low-lying sandy/calcrete soils and along seasonal rivers. The latter is ideal for game and livestock to browse their leaves, pods and inflorescences.

The golden yellow flowers bloom from August to November. At this time they can easily be confused with both the camelthorn and sweet thorn trees. Other characteristics include a red-brown bark with greyish specks, dark green leaves and both straight and slightly curvy thorns. Olive green to green brown seeds are covered in a yellow brown, sickle-shaped pod.