Acacia

Acacia

Acacia is a genus of trees, shrubs, and subshrubs belonging to the subfamily Mimosoideae of the family Fabaceae. The species range from large tree-like plants to low growing subshrubs depending on the species. Acacias are widely distributed throughout tropical and warm temperate regions of the world, particularly in Africa and Australia where they are extremely adaptable and important components of local ecosystems.

In some parts of Australia for example, acacia is an important food source for indigenous people as well as a variety of other wildlife. Moreover, acacias often produce strong timber used for furniture and flooring while their bark is useful in producing tannins which can be used in various tanning processes.