Acacia is a genus of shrubs and trees that has been used in gardens around the world for centuries. With its bright yellow blooms, feathery foliage, and striking silhouette, this eye-catching plant is a favorite among gardeners everywhere. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at how to grow and care for acacia so you can get the most out of this unique plant.
Acacia the Australian Wattle
ACACIA (aka’sha). Botanic name of the Australian Wattles, of which there are over 400 species, differing greatly in size, form, and foliage, but mostly yellow flowered – cream and lemon to deep golden. Foliage is fern-like, to oval (phyllodes) and spiky. Best of the decorative species for garden use are A. Baileyana (Cootamundra Wattle), A. podalyriaefolia (Queensland W.) , both Australian winter flowering, giving a long succession. The Cedar Wattle (A. elata) is long-lived and tall (30 feet) with beautiful green ferny foliage and creamy blossoms, and one of the quickest growers. Of the others, Golden Rain (A. prominens), Mudgee (A. spectablis), Coastal Myall (A. glaucescens, borer resisting) and A. accolta all make nice garden trees and shrubs.
Choosing the Right Acacia Variety
The first step in growing and caring for acacia is selecting the right variety for your climate and environment. Acacias come in many shapes and sizes, from dwarf shrubs to tall trees. The type of acacia you should choose will depend on your garden’s size, soil type, light availability, and other factors. Your local nursery or garden center should be able to help you select the right variety for your needs.
Propagated mostly by seeds which are very hard and need soaking in hot water before sowing. Most varieties (except elata) benefit by pruning after blooming. Watch for borers. Our own A. dealbata (silver wattle) is the ”Mimosa” of Southern France’s cultivated areas, sold in Britain for decoration.
Confusion of the name Acacia is caused by another tree (a notorious suckerer), Robina; up to 60 feet, being known as Acacia – or false Acacia. All climates (except A. podalyriaefolia).
Acacia Varieties recommended to gardeners:
- A. Baileyana, 20-ft.
- A. Podalyriaef olia, 20-ft. Winter flowering.
- A. elata, 30-ft. Ce.da r Wattle. Summer flowering.
- A. mollissima, 20-f t. Soft Black Wattle. Summer flowering.
- A. accola, 20-ft. (a lovely variety). Early Spring.
- A. cyanophylla, 12-ft., drooping foliage. Spring.
- A. prominens, 1 o-f t. Golden Rain Wattle. Spring.
- A. spectabilis, I o-ft. Mudgee Wattle. Spring.
- A. dealbata, 30-ft. Silver Wattle, or ”Mimosa.” Winter.
- A. decurrens var. normalis, 30-ft. Queens Wattle of N.S.W. Summer.
All wattles are evergreen.
Planting Acacia
Once you’ve chosen the right acacia variety, it’s time to prepare it for planting. Acacias are tolerant of most soils but they prefer well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter added. When planting an acacia, make sure to dig a hole twice as wide as the container it came in and deep enough that when placed there it will be level with the surrounding soil. Firmly pack down the soil around roots before adding water to ensure good root contact with the soil.
Caring For Acacia
When grown properly, acacias require very little maintenance or care – just some basic watering and pruning to keep them looking their best! Water newly planted acacias deeply once every week until they become established (about 2 months). After they have become established they should only need supplemental water during periods of drought or extreme heat. Prune any deadwood or crossing branches annually in late winter (after flowering) to keep plants looking tidy and encourage growth of new shoots.
Many nurseries can supply acacias. They are perennials (either trees or shrubs).
They are not hardy where winter temperatures drop below 20°F above zero.
Growing an acacia in your garden is a great way to add some unique beauty and color all year long! With minimal maintenance requirements, these hardy plants are easy enough for all levels of gardeners – from beginners to experts! Just make sure you choose your variety carefully based on light availability, soil type etc., prepare your soil properly before planting, provide regular watering during establishment period then follow up with occasional waterings during dry spells or extreme heat. Finally don’t forget regular pruning once a year after flowering season ends along with occasional light fertilization for optimal results.
