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 vestita is a medium to large shrub with a pendulous habit about 3 metres in height by a similar width (occasionally larger). Like most members of the genus, the mature plant does not have true leaves but has leaf-like flattened stems called phyllodes. In A.vestita the phyllodes are elliptic or ovate in shape, about 10-20 mm long by about 5-10 mm wide and greyish-green in colour. The phyllodes taper to a fine (but not sharp) point and are hairy, particularly along the margins. The bright yellow flower clusters are globular in shape and are produced in the leaf axils in late winter to spring.

A.vestita is well known in cultivation and is widely planted. It is an attractive and hardy plant, suitable for a wide range of climates and soils, provided they are reasonably well drained, and is best grown in full or partial sun. It is tolerant of at least moderate frost. The plant responds to light pruning if necessary but this should be kept to a minimum to avoid damaging the attractive pendulous habit.

Propagation is relatively easy by normal seed raising methods following pretreatment by soaking in boiling water or by scarification. Propagation from cuttings may also be successful.