Babul tree is a common sight in desert and sub-desert regions in India. Known as Vachellia Nilotica in botany, this small, evergreen tree is associated with Goddess Durga, and finds several mentions in the Hindu mythology. It is also mentioned in the Quran as a symbol of the righteous.
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See also: Banyan tree: All you need to know
Babul tree: Main facts
| Botanical Name | Vachellia Nilotica |
| Common Name | Babul, Gum Arabic, Thorny Acacia |
| Genus | Vachellia |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Clade | Tracheophytes |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Life Cycle | Annual |
| Mature Size | Up to 20-25 m |
| Cultivation | Indian Sub-Continent, Tropical Africa |
| Benefits | Dry skin problems like itchiness and flakiness can be treated with its leaves. |
Babul tree: Physical description
Native to Africa, the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent, this deciduous tree is from the Fabaceae family. It is widely grown in arid and semi-arid regions for its various uses. Babul tree has a spreading crown with thorny branches. It can grow up to 20 metre in height. Flaunting a greyish-brown, rough, and fissured bark, the tree carries feathery and pinnate leaves. Its small, pale-yellow flowers have a sweet fragrance. A slow-growing tree, Babul lives for about 100 years.
Babul tree: Growing and maintenance tips
Climate: Well-adapted to hot and dry climate, these trees can tolerate temperatures up to 50°C. They can also withstand cold temperatures but not freezing ones.
Rainfall: Babul trees grow best in areas with an annual rainfall of 300-600 mm.
Soil: Well-drain sandy, or loamy soil is the best for the trees. Make sure there are no weeds and debris in soil before you plant the tree.
Soil pH: Babul can tolerate a range of soil pH levels, from 5.5 to 8.5.
Planting: The tree can be propagated from seeds, or cuttings. If growing from seeds, scratch them before planting to improve germination rates. If using a cutting, take it from young, healthy shoots and plant in a well-drain soil mix. If planting in bulk, plant them at least 3-4 m apart to allow them spread like a crown.
Watering: Drought-tolerant, Babul does not require frequent watering. Water them deeply once a week during the growing season, and sparingly during the dormant season.
Fertilisation: Babul does not require frequent fertilisation. It can, however, benefit from a balanced fertiliser application during the growing season.
Pruning: Babul trees can be pruned to remove dead, or diseased wood, to shape the crown and promote growth. Pruning should be done during the dormant season.
Pests and diseases: Babul is susceptible to stem borers, leaf miners and aphids. Regular monitoring and prompt action can help prevent and control infestations.
Harvesting: The gum of Babul trees can be harvested by making incisions in the bark and collecting the exudate. Harvesting should be done during the dry season.
Babul tree: Uses and benefits
- The tree is the source of natural gum, that is used as a thickener and stabiliser in the food industry. Gum Arabic is also used as a binder in the pharmaceutical industry.
- The roots of the tree can help stabilise soil and prevent erosion.
- The wood of the tree is used for fuel, to make charcoal and construction purposes.
- The tree can fix nitrogen in soil and improve soil fertility. It is often grown in intercropping systems with crops, such as maize, sorghum and millet.
- Drought-tolerant, this tree can survive in harsh environmental conditions. That makes it important for reforestation and afforestation projects in arid and semi-arid regions.
Babul tree: Medicinal uses
In traditional medicine, the bark, leaves, and pods of the tree are used to treat a wide variety of problems, including diarrhoea, dysentery, fever, and inflammation. The fruit is used for medicinal purposes in India because it contains antioxidants and nutrients, such as vitamins A and C.
FAQs
What is Babul tree used for?
Babul tree is used in food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Its wood is used for fuel, construction and making charcoal. Its barks, leaves and pods are used in traditional medicine to treat a range of ailments. Babul tree is also used for erosion control and as a shade tree in agroforestry systems.
What are the medicinal properties of a Babul tree?
Babul tree’s bark is used to treat diarrhoea, dysentery, and fever. Its leaves are used to treat eye infections and dental problems. Its pods are used to treat respiratory infections and skin diseases. Babul tree is also used as an astringent and antiseptic.
How fast does Babul tree grow?
Babul trees can grow up to 2 m per year under ideal conditions.
What pests and diseases affect Babul trees?
Babul trees can be susceptible to stem borers, leaf miners and aphids. It can also be affected by fungal diseases, such as root rot and powdery mildew.
How long does it take for a Babul tree to produce gum?
Babul trees can start producing gum after 3-4 years of growth.
Can Babul trees grow in containers?
Yes, but it may not grow as tall or produce as much gum as trees grown in the ground.
Is Babul tree an invasive species?
Babul trees can spread rapidly in areas where they are not native and can displace native plant species.
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