Acacia Myrtifolia

Description

Acacia Myrtifolia, commonly known as Myrtle Wattle, is a shrub or small tree that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the south-west of Western Australia and grows up to 4-6m tall. The plant has dark green, lance-shaped leaves that are around 4-8cm long and 1-2cm wide. It produces clusters of yellow, ball-shaped flowers that bloom from late winter to early spring.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Fabales
Family	Fabaceae
Genus	Acacia

Appearance

Acacia Myrtifolia is a dense, bushy shrub or small tree that has a spreading habit. It has dark green, lance-shaped leaves that are around 4-8cm long and 1-2cm wide. The leaves are smooth, glossy, and have a slightly curved shape. The plant produces clusters of yellow, ball-shaped flowers that are around 1cm in diameter. The flowers bloom from late winter to early spring and are highly fragrant. The fruit is a flat, brown pod that is around 4-7cm long and 1-2cm wide. It contains several seeds that are oval-shaped and brown in color.

Care Guide

Acacia Myrtifolia is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are a few tips to help you care for your Myrtle Wattle:

• Water: Water your plant regularly during the growing season. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a year in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
• Soil: Plant your Myrtle Wattle in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Acacia Myrtifolia prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Myrtle Wattle is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Acacia Myrtifolia is generally a healthy plant that is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, here are a few issues you may encounter:

• Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. Treat with insecticidal soap or oil.
• Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot. Make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid watering too frequently.
• Mistletoe: This parasitic plant can attach itself to Myrtle Wattle and cause stunted growth. Remove infected branches immediately to prevent the spread.

Habitat

Acacia Myrtifolia is native to the south-west of Western Australia and is found in sandy soils in coastal areas. It grows in heathlands, woodlands, and forests and can also tolerate salt spray and coastal winds. Myrtle Wattle is an important plant for wildlife as it provides food and shelter for birds and insects.

Question and Answer

• Q: How often should I water my Acacia Myrtifolia?
• A: Water your plant regularly during the growing season. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
• Q: When does Acacia Myrtifolia bloom?
• A: Myrtle Wattle blooms from late winter to early spring.
• Q: How tall does Acacia Myrtifolia grow?
• A: Myrtle Wattle can grow up to 4-6m tall.
• Q: What hardiness zones is Acacia Myrtifolia suitable for?
• A: Myrtle Wattle is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Related Plants

• Acacia dealbata
• Acacia longifolia
• Acacia pycnantha
• Acacia melanoxylon

References

• “Acacia Myrtifolia.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia). https://anpsa.org.au/a-myrt.html
• “Acacia Myrtifolia.” PlantNet. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Acacia~myrtifolia
• “Acacia Myrtifolia (Myrtle Wattle).” Gardening Know How. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/acacia/myrtle-wattle-info.htm