Sweet acacia

Vachellia farnesiana

Family: FabaceaeZones: 9A to 11 per UF/IFAS

Pet & Human Safety

People: Hazard to peoplePets: Not on the ASPCA lists as we read them

Hazardous parts

thorns on the branches (UF/IFAS: the thorns can inflict severe pain)

Preparation

n/a

Hazard type

skin injury from thorns

Hazard route

None listed.

How complete this information is

The safety information on this page is partial. Where a source covers a point, it is shown; where none does, the page says so.

Toxic to pets

No ASPCA entry found.

Dogs, cats, horses: none of the pages consulted make a pet toxicity statement. The sharp thorns can hurt people and pets that brush against the branches.

PlotAndPetal cannot tell you whether a plant you found can be eaten. Only someone who can see the plant can identify it.

Poison control

If someone has collapsed, cannot be woken, is having a seizure or has trouble breathing, call 911 now. For any other possible poisoning, call Poison Help: 1-800-222-1222.

Emergency number source: U.S. federal law (47 U.S.C. § 251(e)(3)), read 2026-10-07.

Naturalist Lore

Historical Background & Breeding Lore

The history of this plant and its name, and how it was bred, where we have them.

Get the app: coming soon

Care

Hardiness zones: USDA 9A to 11 per UF/IFAS
Light: Full sun.
Water needs: low
Mature size: UF/IFAS: 15 to 25 ft tall (4.6 to 7.6 m) and 15 to 25 ft wide (4.6 to 7.6 m). Growth is slow.
Where it comes from: UF/IFAS lists it as native (Florida assessment).

Soil & Drainage

Pruning & Flush Rhythm

Feeding Schedule

How to prepare the soil, when and what to feed, and how and when to prune where that applies.

Get the app: coming soon