Dichrostachys

Shrubs or small trees. Spines present, terminating short lateral branchlets. Leaves 2-pinnate, the rhachis bearing stalked glands at the insertion of some of the pinnae. Inflorescence of pendulous axillary spikes; lower part (when pendent) of spike cylindric, composed of bisexual flowers, yellow, upper part broader, neuter, mauve or pink or sometimes white. Calyx shortly 5-toothed. Petals 5. Stamens 10. Anthers with a caducous, stalked apical gland. Pods clustered, irregularly contorted or spiral, indehiscent or opening irregularly. Seeds flattened, smooth.