Acacia xanthophloea (Fever Tree)

The 2010 tree of the year is the well known Acacia xanthophloea. This spectacular tree with it’s straight, luminous yellow trunk and its feathery, spreading canopy is rightfully one of our most popular indigenous trees. The common name, Fever tree, comes from the early settlers who thought the trees were responsible for the fever they contracted when they were in the vicinity of these trees. In fact, it was malaria that they contracted from the mosquitoes that lived in the swampy areas where the trees are commonly found. As the leaves are very small, this is one of the few trees where photosynthesis takes place in the bark. Another interesting feature is the development of a “sacrificial limb” which appears to be a dead branch, but which the tree uses to deposit unwanted nutrients from the soil. Many bird species and especially weavers, use the Acacia xanthophloea for building their nests as the thorns offer protection from snakes while the seed pods and seeds are eaten by a variety of larger wildlife.

 

BASIC TREE DETAILS
Botanical Name	Acacia xanthophloea
Common Name	Fever tree
Genus	Mimosaceae
RSA National Tree No’	189
LANDSCAPING USES
The Fever tree is a stunning addition to any indigenous garden. The striking, sulphur-yellow bark literally glows in the sun while the beautiful feathery foliage and architectural shape make this a real eye catcher. The dappled shade underneath the canopy is perfect for smaller plants that require some protection from harsh sunlight. This superb tree grows very fast when it is kept well watered, making it a popular choice for any area where quick results are needed. The nitrogen fixing bacteria in the root nodules of Acacia xanthphloea help to enrich the soil around the tree with nitrogen which benefits any plants that grow in close proximity to the tree. Whether this magnificent tree is used as a focal point in the landscape or planted in a group or as an avenue, the effect is always absolutely breathtaking.
TREE SPECIFICATIONS
Height	8m – 12m
Spread	6m – 12m
Deciduous/Evergreen	Deciduous
Growth Habit	Acacia xanthophloea grows along rivers pans and low lying swamps in bushveld areas.
Bark	The distinctive sulphur-yellow hue of the bark is due to a covering of fine powder which, when rubbed away, reveals the bright green colour underneath. As the tree matures the bark on the trunk peels away in paper thin layers. The branches are covered in slender white spines.
Foliage	The leaves are twice compound with a single leaflet at the tip. There are 12 to 40 pairs of leaflets per pinna. The leaves are opposite elliptic with smooth margins. Each leaf is approximately 100mm long while each leaflet is 11/2mm x 7mm.
Flowers	The fragrant , bright yellow pom-pom flowers appear from September to November attracting bees and butterflies to the tree.
Fruit	The fruit consists of flat, bean-like pods that are brown or yellowish-brown in colour and are borne in clusters between January and April.
Seed	The small, hard brown seeds attract a variety of wildlife and birds to the tree.
GROWING REQUIREMENTS
Growing regions	Acacia xanthophloea is found naturally from Kenya in the North to Kwazulu-Natal on the East coast of South Africa and is widespread in the Lowveld.
Growing conditions	The Fever tree prefers moist and warm growing conditions but does well in drier areas if given adequate amounts of water.
Best season	Summer
Hardiness	This lovely tree is suitable for areas with only a little frost and no long periods of drought.
Propagation	The easiest method of propagation is seed, which should be soaked in hot water overnight before planting into seed trays. Transplant into small bags as soon as the proper leaves appear, taking care not to damage the tap root.
Growth rate	Fast, 1m – 1,5m per year.
INTERESTING FEATURES
The bark of Acacia xanthophloea is traditionally used by the Zulus who believe that it causes visionary and prophetic dreams and enables them to receive messages from their ancestors. The powdered bark and roots are used as an emetic for malaria as well as being used for eye complaints. The wood is hard and heavy and makes an excellent general purpose timber.

Flowers and Foliage

Seed

Bark