Whitethorn Acacia (Acacia constricta)

   

Flowers and foliage of Whitethorn Acacia (Acacia constricta). Photograph by Wynn Anderson.

• Common English Names: Whitethorn Acacia, Mescat Acacia
• Common Spanish Names: Largancillo, Chaparro Prieto, Vara Prieta, Vinorama
• Scientific Name: Acacia constricta (ah-KAY-shuh kon-STRIK-tuh)
• Family: Fabaceae (Legume Family)
• Geographic Range: Western Texas, southern New Mexico, Arizona, northern Mexico and south to Zacatecas and Puebla.
• Plant Form: Large shrub 10' W x 15' H, occasionally a small tree to 18' H.
• Remarks: Fragrant, globose yellow flowers in spring and sporadically later; copious white, paired thorns on old wood; useful as hedge or barrier plant or as small tree; good honey plant; seeds eaten by birds, especially quail. Low water, full sun in sandy or caliche soil with good drainage

Last Update: 19 Sep 2003