This handsome South African tree is one of the largest of the Acacias with its rounded canopy and widely spreading branches. It occurs naturally in Limpopo (Northern Province) and the North-West, where it can be found growing in open and wooded grasslands, often near streams. It is believed to be an indicator of sweet veldt that retains its nutritional value in winter. In the wild it provides invaluable shade for wildlife of all kinds and is grazed by many animals, including giraffe, kudu and elephant, helping to disperse the seeds. Monkeys are especially partial to the pods and like to take cover in its thorny branches, hence its common name. Many birds prefer to nest in this tree because of the protection it offers and myriads of insects visit the flowers, attracting insect eating birds. It is also a butterfly host plant.
 
The Monkey Thorn loses its leaves in winter and the spikes of honey-scented; creamy-yellow flowers appear in spring, before the new leaves. The flowers are followed by long, purple-brown pods that burst open when ripe, releasing the seeds. The luxuriant light green leaves fold up at night and the attractive flaky bark is pale yellow on young branches, becoming dark grey and fissured as the tree gets older. The pale brown wood is coarse-grained and heavy, making it excellent for firewood but exceptionally difficult to work. It is fast growing and varies in size from 8 to 30m tall, according to the region in which it is grown. The Monkey Thorn survives hot and dry conditions, thriving in dry, frost-free summer rainfall regions. It is hardy to frost if it is covered in winter until established. Plant it in full sun and in fertile soil that drains well.

This beautiful specimen tree provides dappled shade and is suitable for large gardens, avenues and parks. It is valued by farmers, providing shade and shelter for stock. The strong black thorns are hooked, making it ideal for a security hedge. It makes a good bonsai specimen.
 
Monkey thorn, Black monkey thorn and other hard shell seeds should be treated with water before planting. At least one to two days prior to planting, place the seeds in a container which has been filled with warm water until the seeds start to swell. Plant the swollen seeds.