Fabaceae-Mimosaceae
Senegalia senegal
Gum Arabic Tree · Mgunga
T
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This small, thorny deciduous tree typically grows 3–7 metres tall, occasionally reaching 15 metres. It features greyish-white bark that can become dark, scaly, and thin with age, sometimes peeling in papery strips. Its branches are armed with distinctive hooked thorns, usually in threes, measuring 3-7 mm long. Small, grey-green bipinnate leaves and fragrant, yellowish-white flowers in cylindrical spikes characterise the tree, which is primarily known as the source of gum arabic, a valuable natural resin.
Where it works in Kilifi
Well-suited for restoration, agroforestry, or as a specimen in Kilifi coast gardens, especially in full sun and well-drained, sandy soils. It thrives in drought-prone areas and can help stabilise dunes and improve soil fertility through nitrogen fixation. Allow a minimum spacing of 4 x 4 metres.
Growing notes
This species has a slow growth rate but is exceptionally drought tolerant once established, enduring dry periods of 5-11 months. It tolerates high temperatures up to 45°C but is sensitive to frost. Seeds benefit from pretreatment like soaking in water for 12-24 hours, and young plants require protection from grazing and consistent weeding.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: beyondforest.org, feedipedia.org, winrock.org, wikipedia.org, pfaf.org, worldagroforestry.org. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.