Shittim Wood

Vachellia seyal

Physical Characteristics

Vachellia seyal is an evergreen Tree growing to 10 m (32ft) by 12 m (39ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. The flowers are pollinated by Bees. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very acid and saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Semi-arid areas of tropical Africa - Senegal to Egypt, Ethiopia and Somalia, south to Zambia.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Inner bark Edible Uses: Gum Sweetener An edible gum is obtained from the bark[307 ]. Eaten when fresh, although it has slightly acid taste[303 ]. It is also mixed with pulp from the fruit of Balanites aegyptiaca to make a syrup[303 ].

Medicinal Uses

Antidiarrhoeal Antirheumatic Diuretic Dysentery Leprosy Parasiticide Purgative The bark, leaves and gums are used for colds, diarrhoea, haemorrhage, jaundice, headache and burns[303 ]. A bark decoction is used against leprosy and dysentery, is a stimulant and acts as a purgative for humans and animals[303 ]. Exposure to smoke is believed to relieve rheumatic pains[303 ]. A root decoction mixed with leaves of Combretum glutinosum and curdled milk causes strong diuresis[303 ].

Known Hazards

None known