How to Identify Acacia

Acacia grows in many parts of the world, particularly in tropical and temperate climates. It can be found in deserts or around the perimeter of many gardens and homes. Acacia has been used throughout history for food, ornament, ritual and construction. It is easily identifiable thanks to its thorny branches, which makes it a good plant to know for wilderness survival. Read on to learn how to identify acacia.

Instructions

    • 1

      Look for an open, sunny area.

    • 2

      Search for a tree or shrub with small alternating leaves and thorny branches. An acacia tree has fragrant, yellow, spherical flowers and a pale gray bark.

    • 3

      Gather the leaves and eat them raw.

    • 4

      Collect the seeds and eat them raw, or include them in other dishes.

    • 5

      Gather the flowers and eat them raw or cooked. They can be used in soups or other dishes.

    • 6

      Gather the thorny branches and place them around your shelter to deter intruders. In suburban areas, many homeowners plant acacia bushes for the same purpose. In a wilderness survival situation, it can keep other animals out of your shelter and, particularly important, away from your supplies.

    • 7

      Gather the wood to make fire, or use it to construct a shelter.