"Gum arabic" is a natural gum consisting of the hardened sap of which tree species?

The story behind the answer

Gum arabic comes from Acacia trees—especially Acacia senegal and Acacia seyal. When the bark is wounded, these trees exude a sap that hardens into the edible, water‑soluble gum. Palms yield palm sugar or oils, ficus produces latex, and eucalyptus exudes “kino,” not gum arabic.

Historically traded through Arabian ports (hence the name), gum arabic has been used since ancient Egypt. Today it appears as food additive E414, stabilizing soft drinks and candies, and serves as a binder in inks and watercolors. Memory tip: “Arabic” and “Acacia” both start with “A,” and acacias dominate arid African landscapes where most gum arabic is harvested.