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Description
Acacia Paradoxa, also known as Kangaroo Thorn or Hedge Wattle, is a species of shrub or small tree that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to Australia and commonly found in Victoria, South Australia, and New South Wales. The plant is named after its unique, thorny stems that resemble the feet of a kangaroo.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Acacia |
Appearance
The Acacia Paradoxa can grow up to 6 meters in height and has a spread of 3 meters. It has a dense and bushy habit with zigzag stems that have sharp thorns. The leaves are wedge-shaped, about 3-6 centimeters long, and have a bluish-green color. The flowers are small, yellow, and ball-shaped, and bloom in late winter to early spring. The plant produces seed pods that are long, flat, and brown in color.
Care Guide
Acacia Paradoxa is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of conditions. However, it thrives best in well-draining soil and full sunlight. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the first year of growth to establish its roots. Afterward, it can tolerate drought but will benefit from occasional watering during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote growth and blooming.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-7.5. It can tolerate sandy or loamy soil but not heavy clay.
- Sunlight: Plant in full sunlight for best results. The plant can tolerate partial shade but may not bloom as well.
- Hardiness Zones: Acacia Paradoxa is hardy in USDA zones 8-11 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C).
Common Pests & Diseases
Acacia Paradoxa is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly draining soil. Some pests that may attack this plant include:
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant, causing leaves to curl and distort. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests suck the sap from the plant, causing leaves to turn yellow and fall off. Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control them.
Habitat
Acacia Paradoxa is native to Australia and can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, woodlands, and scrublands. It is commonly used as a hedge or screen plant in gardens and parks due to its dense growth habit and thorny stems.
Questions and Answers
Q: Is Acacia Paradoxa toxic to pets?
A: No, the plant is not toxic to pets. However, the thorns may cause injury to animals that come into contact with them.
Q: Can Acacia Paradoxa be grown indoors?
A: No, the plant requires full sunlight and well-draining soil, which are difficult to provide indoors.
Q: How often should I prune my Acacia Paradoxa?
A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches. You can also prune to shape the plant, but avoid cutting into the older, thicker stems.
Q: Can Acacia Paradoxa be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from hardwood cuttings taken in late winter or early spring. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil in a sunny location.
Related Plants
- Acacia dealbata (Silver Wattle)
- Acacia baileyana (Cootamundra Wattle)
- Acacia cognata (River Wattle)
- Acacia podalyriifolia (Queensland Silver Wattle)
References
- Australian Native Plants Society (Australia). (n.d.). Acacia Paradoxa. Retrieved July 15, 2021, from https://anpsa.org.au/a-par.html
- Gardening Australia. (2021, June 26). Kangaroo Thorn. Retrieved July 15, 2021, from https://www.abc.net.au/gardening/factsheets/kangaroo-thorn/9425546
- RHS. (n.d.). Acacia Paradoxa. Retrieved July 15, 2021, from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/241372/Acacia-paradoxa/Details
