Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden, South Africa

Common name: Soetdoring, Sweet thorn, umuNga, Mooka, Moshaoka

Family: Fabaceae (Pea)

Synonym: Acacia karroo

Distribution: Southern Africa

Habitat: Karroid scrubland in sandy soil

IUCN Red list: Not evaluated

National red list: Least Concern

Life form: Shrub / sub-shrub

Comments: This is one of the most useful plants in southern Africa. In arid areas, the presence of this plant is an indication of the presence of water, which was very useful for early travellers and nomads. The tannins from the bark can be used to tan leather. The inner bark can be used to make a strong rope. This plant also has many uses in traditional medicine. Amongst others it has been used to treat colds and flus, diarrhoea, colic and wounds. Studies have shown that it has pharmacological activities such as antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.