Vachellia sphaerocephala, Acacia sphaerocephala

Vachellia sphaerocephala (Bulls-Horn Acacia) is a large, graceful, evergreen tree that is grown for its interesting and attractive silhouette, paired with its yellow and orange flowers. This plant is indigenous to southern Mexico and Central America, but has a wide growing range, as it can be found in warmer regions close to the equator and as far north as the USDA zone 9-11. The trees are known to get quite big, with mature trees reaching heights of more than 20 feet, however there are varieties which come in at 10-20 feet that can easily fit in to smaller spaces such as yards and gardens.

Vachellia sphaerocephala requires full sun and moderate water, while in terms of soils they are not very picky, but are great in well-drained soils. They are quite drought tolerant as well, once established. While the trees roots can be deep and spread far, so great care must be taken when planting near any structures or underground utility lines or pipes.

Vachellia sphaerocephala's main care requirement is that it requires pruning to make it stronger. The tree is known to have long, thorny or spiny stems, which may impale any passers by, particularly if planted near walkways. It is important to prune heavily to encourage this plant to develop a sturdy and strong frame making it much less likely to break in strong winds or stormy weather.

It is quite easy to grow Vachellia sphaerocephala in cold climates in a container or pot. Simply choose a pot with adequate drainage that is big enough to accommodate the size of the tree. Ensure the pot receives adequate sunlight and the plant is given proper hydration and fertilization throughout the growing season. In cold regions, it will require bringing the pot indoors when temperatures start to drop below freezing. This will stop the tree from suffering frost damage.

Similar plants:

• Vachellia cornigera, Acacia cornigera (Bullhorn Acacia)
• Vachellia farnesiana, Acacia farnesiana, Mimosa farnesiana (Yellow Mimosa, Sweet Wattle)
• Vachellia karroo, Acacia karroo (Sweet Thorn)
• Vachellia oviedoensis, Acacia oviedoensis (Acacia)
• Vachellia sieberiana, Acacia sieberiana (Paperbark Thorn)
• Vachellia tortuosa, Acacia tortuosa, Mimosa tortuosa (Twisted Acacia, Huisachillo)
• Vachellia xanthophloea, Acacia xanthophloea (Fever tree )
• Acacia adoxa (Acacia)
• Acacia auriculiformis (Darwin Black Wattle, Ear Pod Wattle)
• Acacia baileyana 'Purpurea' (Purple Fernleaf Acacia)