Cockspur (Acacia cornigera)
Cockspur is abundant on the savannas, its a medicinal plant. Sometimes called the Bullhorn or Cow Thorn, this plant has a symbiotic relationship with an aggressive and painful species of ant (Pseudomyrmex ferruginea). The ants protect the tree from invasive plants and insects. Medicinally, the bark and root is used to slow snake venom... Or used as a bath for acne and other skin problems by boiling the thorns (and the ants)... Be careful of it, the ants are small but they pack a punch!
Photograph by Tamara Sniffin
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