Gum arabic tree is originally native to the savannas and grasslands of Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, the Indian subcontinent, and parts of the Middle East. It has been introduced to parts of the Americas, the Caribbean, and other subtropical and tropical regions, adapting to a wide range of climatic conditions and often found thriving outside its native range.

Gum arabic tree is an evergreen tree which establishes itself quickly and is widely used in agroforestry, for tanning, as fuelwood and timber. Even though it has a variety of uses, this plant is considered invasive in many areas outside its native range.

Control and management of gum arabic tree is not only difficult, but also costly. Since it is often transported deliberately by individuals who wish to use it as fodder for livestock or for other applications, community education is one of the best methods of control. Quarantine cattle and sheep if they moved within an infested area to prevent the spread of seeds. Mechanical removal of this plant is usually performed after a chemical treatment. Gum arabic tree is resistant to grazing, and can quickly regenerate after being damaged, which is why simply cutting it down is not efficient enough. Herbicides can be applied onto the basal bark and cut stumps, or injected into the plant. Before picking the herbicide, consult an agricultural expert to determine which active substance and application method is best for your geographic region.