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Wright Acacia | Senegalia wrightii

Scientific Name

Senegalia wrightii (syn. Acacia wrightii)

Common Name

Wright Acacia, Wright Catclaw, Catclaw Acacia

Photo by Senegalia wrightii.
Tree Description

Senegalia wrightii (syn. Acacia wrightii), Wright acacia, is a small semi-evergreen tree characterized by fragrant white flowers, fine pinnate foliage, prickles, and green legumes. It is mostly found in dry soils and thrives in full sun and low water environments. The tree is highly drought tolerant and multi-stemmed in form.

Tree Size
Small
Height at Maturity
20ft–30ft
Width at Maturity
20ft–30ft
Growth Rate
12 inches/year
Foliage Type
Evergreen
Semi-Evergreen
Sun Exposure
Sun
Water Needs
Low Water
Potential Issues

Stems armed with hooked prickles, susceptible to invasive shot hole borer.

Field Trial Monitoring Results
Fair potential utility as an urban tree based on evaluation of 3 trees, healthy crown, 100% survival, fast growth rate. No signs of pests or diseases found. The hooked spines on this species have made it difficult to manage.
Propagation Results

We had decent germination with hot water scarification and sowing in a warm greenhouse in January. Seedlings show moderately-paced growth and multistemmed habit.

Additional Images
Photo by Senegalia wrightii.
Illustration of Senegalia wrightii.

Illustration by Robert O'Brien courtesy of SelecTree

Citation