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Knob Thorn
Afrikaans name: Knoppiesdoring
Photo © Steven Herbert
Acacia nigrescens
The Knob Thorn is a large tree that can reach up to 18 metres in height.
The common name refers to the thorns that are usually, but not always, found on the tree trunk. These thorns are like rounded lumps and not sharp thorns.
The Knob Thorn is quite common in Kruger National Park where a number of animals make use of it. Mammals such as Giraffe, Kudu and Elephant eat the leaves, branches and shoots. Some birds nest in holes in the Knob Thorn.
The wood is tough and is used for various purposes such as flooring and posts.
Photo © Steven Herbert
References and further reading
A site-by-site guide to trees in the Kruger National Park - Author: Marissa Greeff - Year Published: 2017 - Page: 24Field Guide to the Acacias of South Africa - Author: Nico Smit - Year Published: 2008 - Page: 98
Field Guide to the Trees of the Kruger National Park - Author: Piet van Wyk - Year Published: 2008 - Page: 69
Sappi Tree Spotting: KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape - Author: Val Thomas and Rina Grant - Year Published: 2004? - Page: 208
Sappi Tree Spotting: Lowveld - Author: Jacana - Year Published: 1997 - Page: 96
The Natal Bushveld - Volume 1 - Author: Natal Parks Board - Year Published: 1981 - Page: 51
Wild Issue 24 - Author: - Year Published: 2013 - Page: 68