Flowers
CASSIE Vachellia farnesiana The Tropical Aromatic Acacia
Key Properties
Introduction
Cassie, scientifically Vachellia farnesiana (L.) Wight & Arn. (synonym: Acacia farnesiana), is a tropical acacia with small fragrant yellow flowers, valued in perfumery for its warm animalic notes.
Species
| Binomial | Acacia farnesiana |
|---|---|
| Accepted name | Vachellia farnesiana (L.) Wight & Arn. |
| POWO status | synonym |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| IPNI identifier | urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:1099713-2 |
According to WCVP (Kew), Acacia farnesiana is a synonym of Vachellia farnesiana (L.) Wight & Arn., the accepted name.
Source: Govaerts R. (ed.), World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP), Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, accessed on 21/09/2026.
🌍 General Information
Botanical Identity & History
- 🌍 Geographic origins: • Native habitat: Égypte, Inde • Main cultivation regions: Traditionally harvested in its native range • Optimal climate: Suited to its natural habitat conditions • Soil requirements: Well-draining, adapted to local conditions • Conservation status: Managed sustainably where possible
- 🌿 Botanical characteristics: • Family: Part of its botanical family • Scientific name: Vachellia farnesiana (L.) Wight & Arn. (synonym: Acacia farnesiana) • Type: Characteristic growth form for its species • Notable features: Distinctive aromatic profile • Parts used: Key plant parts for extraction • Growth cycle: Adapted to local seasons
🏛️ Cultural Heritage
- 🏺 Ancient traditions: • Cultural significance: Important in traditional medicine systems • Traditional methods: Time-honored extraction and preparation • Ethnobotanical value: Documented in historical pharmacopoeias • Spiritual associations: Used in rituals and ceremonies
- 🌍 Modern applications: • Aromatherapy: Professional and home use protocols • Perfumery: Valued for its unique olfactory profile
🔬 Chemical Composition
Major Active Compounds
- 🌿 Linalool (20-30%):
- 🍃 Geraniol (15-25%):
- 🌱 Myrcene (8-15%): • Character: Contributes to the aromatic identity • Stability: Good conservation properties
- 🍀 Benzyl alcohol (5-10%): • Specificity: Unique contribution to the essential oil • Quality marker: Indicator of authenticity and quality
⚗️ Extraction Methods
Solvent extraction
- 🌿 Raw material preparation: • Harvesting: Spring flower harvest • Pre-treatment: Appropriate preparation for optimal yield • Moisture content: Controlled for best extraction results • Quality selection: Only premium material used
- ⚗️ Distillation process: • Method: Solvent extraction • Yield: 0.2-0.4% essential oil • Duration: Optimized for quality and completeness • Quality control: GC-MS analysis for every batch
⚠️ Important Precautions
Precautions for this plant are being verified against sources; their absence here does not mean there are none.