Twisted acacia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Twisted acacia |
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| Vachellia schaffneri fruits | |
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| Genus: |
Vachellia
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| Species: |
schaffneri
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Vachellia schaffneri, also known as the twisted acacia or Schaffner's acacia, is a type of tree. It grows naturally in Mexico and the southwestern United States, especially in Texas.
Contents
What is Vachellia Schaffneri?
This tree can grow quite tall, up to about 25 feet (7.6 meters). It has sharp thorns, so be careful! Its leaves are special because they are "bipinnately compound." This means each leaf is made of many smaller leaflets, arranged in a feathery way. These leaves look a lot like those on other Vachellia trees.
Flowers and Seeds
In the spring, the Vachellia schaffneri tree blooms with pretty yellow flowers. These flowers look a bit like fluffy balls. Later in the summer, the tree grows long, fuzzy seedpods. These pods are a favorite food for farm animals. Inside the pods, you'll find many hard, black seeds.
How People and Animals Use This Tree
Vachellia schaffneri trees are very useful! People often use the wood for different things.
Wood for Fuel and Fences
The wood from this tree is excellent for burning. It makes very good firewood and is often used for cooking. People also use the strong wood to build fences.
Food and Shelter for Animals
Many animals rely on Vachellia schaffneri for food. Goats and sheep love to eat the leaves from the tree. When the fuzzy seedpods are ready in late summer, these animals enjoy eating them too. Besides food, livestock also use the trees for shade on sunny days and for shelter from the weather.
Tree Nutrients
The leaves and seeds of Vachellia schaffneri are quite nutritious. They contain a good amount of protein, about 11.6%. This makes them a valuable food source for animals. The tree also contains some natural chemical compounds like Phenethylamine and Tyramine.
Images for kids
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Vachellia tortuosa seeds
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Vachellia schaffneri as food for goats
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Very large Vachellia schaffneri thorns
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Vachellia schaffneri wood
See also
In Spanish: Huisache chino para niños
