The study was conducted in a semi-arid savanna of South Africa, dominated by an almost pure stand of Acacia mellifera subsp. detinens (Black Thorn). Due to its invasive habits and suppression of the herbaceous layer, this woody species is viewed by land owners as a serious threat. Clearing of all A. mellifera trees in order to restore the production potential of the herbaceous layer is thus a well-established practice. In view of possible beneficial effects of A. mellifera, a study was undertaken with the objective of quantifying differences in soil nutrient status under A. mellifera canopies (canopied subhabitat) in comparison to the open areas (uncanopied subhabitat). The results of the study confirmed the existence of differences in the soil nutrient status between the various subhabitats, which occurred in a specific spatial gradient from the stem base of the plants towards the open, uncanopied areas. Keywords: bush encroachment, canopied subhabitat, soil nutrients, uncanopied subhabitat.