Silver wattle - Acacia dealbata (Care, Characteristics, Flower, Images)

Silver wattle

Also known as: Wattle Bark, Blue wattle, Mimosa

It is a fast-growing evergreen tree or shrub growing up to 15 m tall. The leaves are blue-green to silvery gray and thinly divided, which makes them attractive all year long. The flowers of the silver wattle are bright balls of color made up of yellow flowerheads of 13–42 individual flowers.

Scientific classification

Species

Silver wattle (Acacia dealbata)

Legumes, milkworts and allies

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Toxic to Humans

Toxicity

Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Spring, Early summer, Late winter

Bloom Time

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Harvest Time

30 m

Plant Height

12 m to 15 m

Spread

Green, Silver, Gray

Leaf Color

6 mm to 7 mm

Flower Size

Brown

Fruit Color

Yellow

Flower Color

Green, Gray, Silver, Yellow, Brown

Stem Color

Images of Silver wattle

Distribution of Silver wattle

Distribution Map

Native to Australia, the silver wattle has been introduced to Africa, South America, Europe, and Asia. The silver wattle's natural habit includes woodlands, grasslands, and watercourses. It has been identified as an invasive plant in California and an invading weed in South Africa. However, it has been used to control soil erosion and as a craftwood.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Streams, gullies, alpine ridges, dry forests

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Garden Use

Silver wattle is a popular evergreen tree or shrub prized for its bright flowers and high canopy. It is used for erosion control and borders and is essential in city and Mediterranean gardens. Plant it with a century plant or Chinese windmill palm for texture and complimenting colors.

Symbolism

Secret love

Interesting Facts

Although silver wattle has been used as an ornamental tree in some areas, it has become an invasive species in other areas. The flowers of this tree are used as cut flowers and for fragrance in perfumes. The timber is often used for craft furniture or tools, while the bark was traditionally used to make a twine or rope.

Name Story

Silver wattle: Silver wattle is also known as Acacia dealbata. The genus name, acacia, comes from the Greek word akakia. Akakia refers to a thorny type of Egyptian tree. The specific epithet, refers to the word, whitened. The specific epithet refers to the silvery- white lichen which covers the tree in mountainous areas.

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Toxicity

Silver wattle can be mildly toxic to humans if ingested or touched. All parts of the plant may cause skin or stomach irritation due to alkaloids common in Acacia species. These effects include irritation upon contact or ingestion.

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Care Guide for Silver wattle

Every 1-2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from mild climates, silver wattle adapts to lower water availability. It thrives with moderate moisture and shows drought tolerance once established. Watering should occur every 1-2 weeks. Typically grown outdoors, silver wattle benefits from mulching to retain soil moisture and replicate its natural habitat.

Fertilize: For silver wattle, use balanced nutrition fertilizer to enhance growth, flowering, and health. Fertilize sparingly in early spring and late summer, adjusting for growth stages. Over-fertilizing is harmful; follow label rates. Apply evenly around the base, avoiding the trunk, to improve root uptake and prevent burn.

Pruning: The fast-growing silver wattle features bright yellow flowers and feathery leaves. Annual pruning in early to late winter promotes spring blooms and prevents legginess. Use sterilized, sharp tools for clean cuts and a balanced structure, ensuring healthier growth and removing dead branches.

Propagation: Silver wattle is best propagated in Spring using cutting and layering methods, featuring a moderate difficulty level. Successful propagation signs include new shoots and root formation. High humidity is essential for optimal results.

Repotting: Repot silver wattle every 2-3 years in spring using a large, sturdy container. Provide ample sunlight and avoid overwatering post-repot. Use a well-draining potting mix and monitor for recovery and healthy new growth.

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Images of Silver wattle

Distribution of Silver wattle

Culture

Toxicity

Care Guide for Silver wattle

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