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Black Catechu

Senegalia catechu
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Senegalia catechu (Black Catechu) — botanical photograph
Pl. ADCC — Senegalia catechu
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I

Overview

Black Catechu, scientifically known as Senegalia catechu, is a medium-sized tree native to regions including Assam, Bangladesh, China South-Central, East Himalaya, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, and Thailand. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types such as light (sandy) and medium. It grows up to 20 meters tall and is valued for its edible properties, with seeds and stems being part of the diet in some areas. Its hardiness ranges from zone 10-12, indicating it can withstand mild winters. Black Catechu stands out with its ability to grow in diverse environments, making it a versatile species in botanical contexts.

Quick answers

What is Black Catechu?

Black Catechu, scientifically known as Senegalia catechu, is a medium-sized tree native to regions including Assam, Bangladesh, China South-Central, East Himalaya, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, and Thailand.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Black Catechu thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil that can be light (sandy) or medium. It is drought-tolerant but will also grow in moist conditions. The plant is hardy in temperate regions with a range of 10-12, making it suitable for areas with mild winters. To propagate, use seeds or stem cuttings. This tree can reach heights of up to 20 meters and is native to several countries including Assam, Bangladesh, China South-Central, East Himalaya, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, and Thailand. Its edible parts include the seed and stem.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
20.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Black Catechu for the first time

8steps

Start with planting Black Catechu in a sunny spot and follow these simple steps for success.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds or young plants, a garden fork, a rake.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant seeds in spring after the last frost or transplant young plants anytime from late winter to early summer.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Choose a well-draining spot with light to medium soil. Loosen the soil to about 30 cm deep using a garden fork.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    For seeds, sow them just below the surface in rows spaced 1-2 meters apart. For young plants, dig holes and place each plant at least 2 meters from others.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Keep an eye out for pests or diseases.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun exposure, and water only when the top inch of soil feels dry. Prune occasionally to maintain shape.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune in late winter before new growth starts to encourage a healthy structure.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting too close together, neglecting sun exposure.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:SeedStem
Edible uses: Gum
Other uses:Fire starterDyeFencingGumTanninLumberNitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

10 native · 3 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 10 native· 3 introduced
Asia8 regions
native (7)BangladeshChinaIndiaMyanmarNepalPakistanThailand
introduced (1)China
Broader regions
native:East Himalaya, West Himalaya
introduced:Jawa, Northern Territory
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Senegalia catechu (Black Catechu) — botanical photograph
Black Catechu (Senegalia catechu)
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Explore further

Growing zone
XII

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