Brandberg acacia
Acacia montis-usti
Family: Fabaceae
What it is like
A shrub or small tree. It grows 5 m tall. There are prickles along the stem. The leaves are twice divided and there are 8-18 pairs of pinnae. There are up to 50 pairs of pinnules on each pinnae. The flowers are yellow. They are in large clusters at the ends of branches. The pods are flattened.
Also as Mimosaceae.
Where it is found
It is a subtropical plant. It grows in areas with an annual rainfall below 200 mm. It grows in well drained shallow stony soil. The soil can be alkaline. It grows between 600-1,600 m above sea level. It is resistant to wind and can tolerate drought. It can grow in arid places.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, Namibia, Southern Africa
How it is used for food
The seeds are roasted and eaten. The bark is used to assist in the fermenting of beer.
Edible parts
Seeds, bark - drink
How it is grown
It can be cut back and will re-grow.
Its other names
Local names
Okangondo, Sai