The umbrella thorn spreads a flat canopy that shades animals at midday. Giraffe and elephants browse its leaves, and birds nest in its thorns.
Trees
Umbrella Thorn Acacia
Vachellia tortilis
The flat-topped tree that defines the African savannah.
Size
Up to 20 m tall
Lifespan
100+ years
Diet
Not applicable.
Habitat
Savannah and semi-arid land.
About the umbrella thorn acacia
Did you know?
01
It has both long white thorns and small hooked ones.
02
Its seed pods feed animals.
03
It can survive on very little rain.
When to see it
Seen all year round; the best sightings depend on where you are.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Trips that go there
Where to meet the umbrella thorn acacia
More wildlife to discover
Trees
African Baobab
Adansonia digitata
The upside-down tree, and the skyline of Tarangire.
Tarangire, Lake Eyasi +2 more
Trees
Fever Tree
Vachellia xanthophloea
A tree with glowing yellow-green bark, found near water.
Lake Manyara, Serengeti +2 more
Trees
Sausage Tree
Kigelia africana
A big tree that hangs sausage-shaped fruit as long as a person's arm.
Serengeti, Saadani +3 more
Trees
Red Mangrove
Rhizophora mucronata
A coastal tree that grows on stilt roots in salty tidal water.
Jozani Forest, Zanzibar Stone Town +4 more
Start Planning
Your wildlife wish list, our job
Tell us what you most want to see and we will plan the season, the place and the guide to match.
Prefer to talk? Call +255 754 123 456