Acacia

Possibly a reference to the acacia, the name ṭalḥ is used once in the Qur’ān in reference to one of the blessings the believers will receive after the Day of Judgement.

Vachellia nilotica is one of the most widespread acacia species, found from South Africa north to Iraq and east to India.

It is a majestic tree, both in flower and fruit, often planted in villages for its shade, evergreen foliage and mildly fragrant flowers.

The pods contain tannin and have been used for tanning since ancient times. Acacia has medicinal uses and is an important source of gum arabic.

Painted from specimens found at Sharjah Botanic Gardens, UAE.

Completed painting size: 54 x 72cm
Main picture leaves and flowers x 6, pods x 2,
gland x 15, flower detail x 15
Watercolour on paper

Acacia pods - small line drawing 21 x 30, ink and graphite