Wildflower - Sickle-Bush (Dichrostachys cinerea)

This shrub, usually 6 - 10 feet high, is native to South Africa.

 

Various parts of this plant are widely used to treat snakebite.

 

The pods are high in protein, and eaten by a variety of livestock, including kudu and eland. As well, rhino and giraffe eat the leaves and shoots. This plant blooms spring to summer.

 

This plant is classified by the USDA as an invasive species. An invasive species is a non-native species (including seeds, eggs, spores, or other propagules) whose introduction causes or is likely to cause economic harm, environmental harm, or harm to human health. The term "invasive"; is used for the most aggressive species. These species grow and reproduce rapidly, causing major disturbance to the areas in which they are present. This plant has been found in Key Largo, Florida.

 

USDA Profile...

 

Symbol:DICI2

Group:Dicot

Family:Fabaceae

Duration: Perennial

Growth Habit: Shrub Tree

Native Status: L48 I

 

This photo, and some accompanying information, taken at The Living Desert in Palm Desert, CA.

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