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Description
Acacia Acinacea, also known as Gold Dust Wattle or Raspberry Wattle, is a shrub or small tree that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to Australia and can grow up to 5 meters tall. The plant produces yellow flowers in late winter and early spring, which are followed by seed pods. Its leaves are bipinnate, meaning they have multiple leaflets arranged on either side of a central stem.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Acacia |
Appearance
Acacia Acinacea has a dense and bushy growth habit, with a rounded or spreading canopy. Its bark is smooth and dark brown, while its leaves are dark green and feathery. The plant produces clusters of bright yellow flowers that are about 1 cm in diameter. These flowers are followed by seed pods that are about 5 cm long and 1 cm wide. The pods are initially green but turn brown as they mature.
Care Guide
Acacia Acinacea is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of growing conditions. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure, but can also grow in partial shade. It is drought-tolerant and does not require regular watering. However, it can benefit from occasional deep watering during extended dry periods. The plant does not require regular fertilization, but can benefit from a light application of slow-release fertilizer in spring. Acacia Acinacea is hardy to USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Acacia Acinacea is generally free of serious pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to leaf-eating caterpillars, spider mites, and scale insects. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil sprays. The plant can also be affected by root rot if grown in poorly-draining soil.
Habitat
Acacia Acinacea is native to Australia and is commonly found in woodland areas, heathlands, and open forests. It prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The plant is also able to tolerate periods of drought and can grow in areas with low rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Acacia Acinacea a fast-growing plant?
A: Acacia Acinacea is a relatively slow-growing plant, especially when grown from seed. However, it can grow more quickly when propagated from cuttings or by grafting.
Q: Can Acacia Acinacea be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Acacia Acinacea can be grown in containers, but it may need to be pruned regularly to control its size. It is also important to ensure that the soil in the container is well-draining and that the plant is not overwatered.
Q: How often should Acacia Acinacea be pruned?
A: Acacia Acinacea does not require regular pruning, but can benefit from occasional shaping or removal of dead or diseased branches. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: Can Acacia Acinacea be propagated from seed?
A: Yes, Acacia Acinacea can be propagated from seed, but it can take several weeks or months for the seeds to germinate. It may be more effective to propagate the plant from cuttings or by grafting.
Related Plants
- Acacia Baileyana
- Acacia Dealbata
- Acacia Cognata
- Acacia Decurrens
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/acacia/gold-dust-wattle-info.htm
- https://www.thespruce.com/acacia-acinacea-profile-3269194
- https://www.australianplants.com/plants.aspx?id=1387
