Acacia trees: Strength, resilience, and timeless beauty

By Judy Salamah, Senior Specialist – Environmental Assessment at Red Sea Global

I, and others like me, have been standing for nearly 600 years. Together, we have witnessed great change in our home: the birth of the nation, the discovery of oil, and the opening of borders to visitors from around the world, all while giving undemandingly to humans.   

Amid Saudi’s arid landscapes, you will find us - Acacia trees. Immovable and patient, our twisted trunks and spreading canopies are living legends, and evidence that beauty and strength can flourish in vast desert expanses. 

Yet, our presence is more than aesthetic; it's a lifeline. We offer vital shelter for animals. Our extensive root systems protect against the forces of soil erosion, and ancient people relied on us for shade, and nectar for honey. 

These people called us Acacia. Our most common tribe (‘species’ in human speak) was named Acacia tortilis but you renamed me, Vachellia.   

Gradually, we have worked our way into Saudi culture, becoming the protagonists of folklore, the muse of poets, and the subject of songs. We stand as symbols of resilience, deeply intertwined with the pulse of the land and the heart of the people. 

But what truly captivates the imagination is our remarkable longevity. Centuries ago, many of us even saw pilgrims from around the world traveling the Hijazi coasts. Our exceptional lifespan stems from our ability to withstand extreme environmental conditions while keeping our structural integrity throughout the ages. 

In my lifetime, I have provided shelter to animals now extinct. My parents likely shaded lions, Arabian ostrich, cheetah, and other animals that once roamed our land. 

Our adaptations are our secret to survival, enabling us to thrive and endure over time. Our extensive root system taps into nutrient-rich water even in the driest of regions. And, our specialized leaf structures, including small leaflets and thorns, help to conserve water and deter herbivores. I may be slow to grow, but I have a highly effective energy conservation strategy, further increasing my resilience by reducing susceptibility to diseases and environmental stressors. 

Our longevity contributes to biodiversity, providing habitats, food, and support for various organisms. We are the architects of life, showcasing nature's resilience and adaptability. We are not just survivors; we are living records of exceptional adaptations and an enduring spirit in the Arabian Desert.   

I, and my friends, hope that the next time you pass us, you will appreciate just how special we are and help to protect us and our habitats. Please help our children to grow, become established, and thrive for generations to come.