There are many different limestone communities. Most of the limestone exposed in the arid zone is relatively new and very flat. The older ridges are not as common, and contain dolomite. These tend to be dominated by Mallee and spinifex, with Acacia ligulata - the umbrella bush, which is also found in sandhill country. Areas of associated alluvial soil can contain Acacia kempeana - the witchetty bush. If you dig under these plants and find a bulbous root, it will contain a witchetty grub - exceptionally good eating. East of Alice Springs, south as far as the southern Simpson Desert, and north to beyond the Plenty Highway, limestone areas are dominated by Acacia georginae - the gidgee or stinking wattle.

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