General Description:

Acacia is a genus of around 1300 species, about 950 of which occur in Australia. Until recently the genus was more broadly described with about 1400 species spread over five sub-genera. This is discussed further in our dedicated Acacia page.

Acacias occur in all Australian states from coastal zones to mountains to the dry inland. Collectively, acacias are known as “wattles” and one of them, Acacia pycnantha, is the national floral emblem. The green and gold colours of the foliage and flowers has provided Australia’s official colours.

Acacia cultriformis is a medium shrub up to 2-3 metres tall although a cascading or prostrate form of unknown origin is in cultivation. Like most members of the genus, the mature plant does not have true leaves but has leaf-like flattened stems called phyllodes. In A.cultriformis the phyllodes are greyish, triangular in shape and about 25 mm long by 12 mm wide with a small point (mucro) at the tip. The bright yellow flowers occur in globular-shaped clusters in groups from the axils of the phyllodes. Flowering is mainly in spring.

A.cultriformis is one of the most widely cultivated wattles because of its attractive foliage and colourful flowers. The prostrate form is particularly attractive as a landscaping plant on sloping rock walls. The plant is suited to a wide range of soil types provided they are reasonably well drained. A position in full sun or light shade is suitable and the species is tolerant of at least moderate frosts.

Propagation is relatively easy by normal seed raising methods following pretreatment by soaking in boiling water or by scarification. Cuttings may be successful but this method is not often used. Propagation of the prostrate form would need to be carried out from cuttings in order to retain the prostrate habit.