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Fever Tree
Vachellia xanthophloea
A fast-growing acacia with a distinctive smooth, yellow-green photosynthetic bark, feathery foliage, and small white ball-shaped flowers. Strongly associated with riverine and lakeside habitats of Kenya's Rift Valley.
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- Fabaceae
- Tree type
- ornamental/shade
- Mature height (m)
- 15-25
- Growth rate
- fast
- Lifespan (years)
- 40-60
- Native region
- Eastern and Southern Africa (Rift Valley)
Environment
Growing Conditions
- Climate requirements
- Naturally occurs around swamps, rivers, and Rift Valley lakes at low-to-mid altitude; tolerates seasonal waterlogging.
- Soil types
- Prefers moist alluvial soils near water bodies but adapts to a range of soil types.
- Water requirements
- High; thrives with reliable moisture, though established trees tolerate dry spells.
Cultivation
Planting & Care
- Planting guide
- Propagate from scarified seed; space 8-10m apart; plant during the rainy season, ideally near water features.
- Care guide
- Fast-growing with minimal pruning needs; thorny branches require careful handling; largely pest-free.
Phenology
Flowering & Fruiting
- Flowering season
- Variable, generally after rains
- Fruiting season
- Pods develop several months after flowering
Value
Uses & Economic Importance
- Uses
- Ornamental and shade tree, riverbank/wetland stabilization, bee forage; important wildlife habitat tree.
- Economic importance
- Signature tree of Kenyan Rift Valley national parks (e.g., Lake Nakuru), underpinning wildlife tourism; also used in urban wetland/park landscaping and by beekeepers.
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