Faidherbia is a tree which has a special nitrogen-fixing property and an unusual habit known as "reverse leaf phenology". Unlike other trees, Faidherbia sheds its leaves and goes dormant during the early rainy season. Its leaves grow again only in the dry season. This means that it is extremely compatible with food crops because it does not compete with them for water, nutrients or light. Maize is the staple food for many African countries, but when grown as a mono-crop over many years it drains the soil of vital nutrients. , Al , O , F , N , P , Au , Cu , S , Pd , W , C ,