Contents
Description
Acacia Falcata, commonly known as the Sickle Wattle, is an evergreen tree or shrub that can grow up to 6 meters tall. It is native to Australia and typically found in New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania. The tree produces yellow, globular flowers in early spring, and these flowers are followed by elongated seed pods that can reach up to 12 cm in length. The bark of the tree is grey and smooth when young, but becomes rough and fissured as the tree ages.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Acacia |
Appearance
The Sickle Wattle has a distinctive appearance with its elongated, sickle-shaped leaves that are a blue-grey color. The leaves are usually around 8 cm long and 1 cm wide. The tree’s bark is rough and furrowed, with the younger branches being green and smooth. The tree produces yellow, globular flowers in early spring, and these flowers are followed by elongated seed pods that can reach up to 12 cm in length.
Care Guide
To care for Acacia Falcata, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The tree prefers full sun and is drought tolerant once established. It is important to water the tree regularly during the first few months after planting. Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring. Acacia Falcata is hardy to USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Sickle Wattle is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot and fungal diseases if the soil is not well-draining. Spider mites and scale insects can also infest the tree, causing damage to the leaves and branches.
Habitat
Acacia Falcata is native to Australia and typically found in New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania. The tree prefers well-draining soils and is often found in dry, rocky areas. It is commonly used in landscaping and as a windbreak in agricultural areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Acacia Falcata drought tolerant?
A: Yes, once established, Acacia Falcata is drought tolerant.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize Acacia Falcata?
A: Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring.
Q: What pests can infest Acacia Falcata?
A: Spider mites and scale insects can infest the tree, causing damage to the leaves and branches.
Q: Where is Acacia Falcata native to?
A: Acacia Falcata is native to Australia and typically found in New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania.
Related Plants
- Acacia Melanoxylon
- Acacia Decurrens
- Acacia Dealbata
References
- “Acacia falcata.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia). Accessed September 24, 2021. https://anpsa.org.au/a-fal.html.
- “Acacia falcata.” PlantNet. Accessed September 24, 2021. https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Acacia~falcata.
