Acacia abyssinica (=Vachellia abyssinica) is a hardy, deciduous (in Gauteng) to semi-deciduous, large tree that develops a distinctly flat top. The very dark brown to black bark is papery and peels off in big pieces on younger trees.
Fine, feathery leaves make up the spreading, flat crown. The white puff-ball like flowers are borne in spring and summer, and these develop into fairly small, narrow, straight leathery seed pods.
Insects and insect-eating birds are attracted to the garden by the flowers of this tree. The flaky bark also provides habitat for insects that birds love to eat.
Give this tree plenty of space to spread its canopy which provides light shade in a large garden. Spreading roots make it unsuitable for planting near buildings. Drought tolerant, will grow on degraded land and along gullies. It makes good firewood but the hard wood is difficult to work. Grows best in full sun, in well drained soil.
Size: up to 16m.