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Description
Acacia Buxifolia, commonly known as the Dwarf Box Acacia, is a small, evergreen shrub that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to South Australia, where it can be found growing in sandy soils in arid and semi-arid regions. The plant grows up to 1.5 meters tall and has a spread of up to 2 meters. It has a slow growth rate and can live up to 50 years.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Acacia |
Appearance
The Dwarf Box Acacia has small, oval-shaped leaves that are a bluish-green color. The leaves grow up to 1.5 centimeters long and 0.7 centimeters wide. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that bloom in spring and summer. The flowers are arranged in small clusters and are fragrant. The plant also produces small, brown seed pods that are up to 3 centimeters long.
Care Guide
The Dwarf Box Acacia is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soils and can grow in sandy or loamy soils. The plant requires full sun to thrive and can tolerate drought conditions. It is also frost and salt tolerant.
Water the plant regularly during the first growing season to establish its roots. After that, water the plant only during extended periods of drought. Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer in spring. Prune the plant to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Hardiness Zones: 8-11
Common Pests & Diseases
The Dwarf Box Acacia is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly-draining soils. The plant can also be attacked by spider mites, aphids, and scale insects. Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control these pests.
Habitat
The Dwarf Box Acacia is native to South Australia, where it can be found growing in sandy soils in arid and semi-arid regions. The plant is commonly used as a landscaping plant in dry gardens and rockeries. It is also grown as a bonsai plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Dwarf Box Acacia a fast-growing plant?
A: No, the Dwarf Box Acacia has a slow growth rate.
Q: Can the Dwarf Box Acacia tolerate frost?
A: Yes, the Dwarf Box Acacia is frost tolerant.
Q: What is the best time to prune the Dwarf Box Acacia?
A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: What is the height and spread of the Dwarf Box Acacia?
A: The plant grows up to 1.5 meters tall and has a spread of up to 2 meters.
Related Plants
- Acacia Baileyana
- Acacia Dealbata
- Acacia Floribunda
- Acacia Melanoxylon
- Acacia Pycnantha
References
- “Acacia Buxifolia.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia). https://anpsa.org.au/a-bux.html
- “Acacia Buxifolia.” PlantNet. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Acacia~buxifolia
- “Acacia Buxifolia – Dwarf Box Acacia.” Gardening Know How. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/acacia-dwarf-box/acacia-buxifolia-info.htm
