Senegalia rugata

Senegalia rugata is a species of plant in the family Fabaceae. It is found in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical dry forests. The plant is known for its rugged, thorny appearance, hence the name 'rugata', which means 'wrinkled' in Latin.

Description

Senegalia rugata is a small to medium-sized tree that typically grows to a height of 5-10 meters. The bark is rough and grey, with deep furrows and ridges. The leaves are bipinnate, with 4-12 pairs of pinnae, each with 10-30 pairs of leaflets. The flowers are small and white, arranged in dense, spherical heads. The fruit is a flat, elongated pod, containing several seeds.

Distribution and habitat

Senegalia rugata is native to East Africa, where it is found in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. It grows in a variety of habitats, including dry forests, woodland savannas, and bushland. It is often found on rocky hillsides and in areas with well-drained soil.

Uses

The wood of Senegalia rugata is used for fuel and charcoal production. The bark is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments. The leaves and pods are used as fodder for livestock.

Conservation status

Senegalia rugata is not currently considered to be at risk of extinction. However, like many species of plants in East Africa, it is threatened by habitat loss due to deforestation and land conversion for agriculture.

See also

• List of Senegalia species
• Flora of East Africa