There are few more striking symbols of Africa than a thorn tree - its gnarled branches, graceful form, jagged thorns and abundant blooms, in many ways reflecting the paradoxes of the continent.

• 很少能有比荆棘树更能代表非洲的了-粗糙的树枝，优美的树形，参差的刺针以及绚烂的花朵，从各个方面体现了这个大陆的种种矛盾。