Sweet Acacia

Scientific name: Vachellia farnesiana

POWO Status: Tree

IUCN Red List threat level: Least Concern

GPS Location: 17° 42′ 59.20″ N, 64° 49′ 49.68″ W

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Observations:

Phenology Markers

Common Name: Sweet Acacia / Huisache
Scientific Name: Vachellia farnesiana
Family: Fabaceae
Native Region: Southern United States, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean

General Description:

Vachellia farnesiana is a small, thorny shrub or tree with fragrant, yellow, ball-shaped flowers that bloom in clusters. It is highly adaptable, found in dry, arid environments, and plays a key role in the restoration of degraded land. The tree is known for its long-lasting blooms and ability to attract pollinators, especially bees.

Phenological Markers:

1. Flowering Period:

  • First Sign of Flowering: Early spring (March – April)
  • Peak Bloom: Late spring to early summer (May – June)
  • End of Flowering: Late summer (July – August)
  • Flower Characteristics: Bright yellow, fluffy, and ball-shaped, often clustered along the branches.

2. Leaf Growth and Senescence:

  • New Leaf Growth: Early spring (March – April)
  • Leaf Maturity: Late spring (May)
  • Leaf Senescence: Late fall to early winter (November – December)
  • Leaf Characteristics: Compound leaves, pinnate, and soft-textured.

3. Fruit Production:

  • First Sign of Fruit Development: Late summer (August – September)
  • Peak Fruit Maturity: Fall (October – November)
  • End of Fruit Production: Late fall (December)
  • Fruit Characteristics: Leguminous pods that turn brown when mature, often containing a few seeds.

4. Dormancy Period:

  • Dormancy Begins: Winter (December – January)
  • Dormancy Ends: Early spring (March – April)
  • Dormancy Characteristics: The tree may lose a significant portion of its leaves and enter a period of reduced activity.

Ecological Notes:

  • Pollinators: Primarily bees, drawn to the abundant, fragrant flowers.
  • Wildlife Interaction: The pods are an important food source for birds and small mammals.
  • Soil Preferences: Thrives in well-drained, sandy, or loamy soils, tolerating drought conditions.

Observational Guidelines:

  • Best Time for Observation: Late spring for peak flowering and early summer for fruit development.
  • Data Collection: Document flowering and fruiting stages in sequential visits to track progression over time.
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