Product description
Bring a burst of colour into your garden in late winter! Just when you have had enough of dull and boring and cannot wait for spring, Acacia dealbata bursts forth with a vibrant bright display of small, golden yellow fluffy spheres of flowers in January that will perk you up in a jiffy. The flowers have a wonderful fragrance, attracting bees, birds and butterflies, bringing sound and movement into a sleeping garden.
The Mimosa or Silver Wattle offers all-year round interest, keeping its deep glaucous blue-green and silvery-green foliage. The leaves have a pinnate shape with feathery leaflets, creating a wonderful backdrop for the yellow flowers.
Acacia dealbata has a wide spreading habit and will grow into a squat and wide tree with widely spaced branches and a pale green trunk. The tree has its heritage in south eastern Australia and is half hardy. It may require some protection in winter if it is planted in exposed sites. It prefers free draining soil and will not do well in chalky soil. The ideal position for planting would be in a sheltered space against a south facing wall where it will get maximum protection. It also makes a great conservatory plant if you have enough room.
This tree has a host of commercial uses. The essence is known as cassie or opopanax and is used in the manufacture of fragrances. In Italy and Russia the cut flowers are offered to women as a gift on International Women’s Day. In India, the leaves are used in the making of Chutney.
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
When to plant
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
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Planting and period of interest times are general guidelines and may vary based on your location and conditions. For best results, consult local gardening resources.
Instructions
Top Tip
Prune Acacia trees lightly in late winter or early spring to maintain their shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. Be cautious not to over-prune, as this can affect flowering. These trees thrive in sunny, sheltered positions, so plant them in areas protected from strong winds to prevent damage to their delicate branches. Add a slow-release fertiliser in spring to promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
How to Water
Water your Acacia tree deeply after planting, ensuring the soil is evenly moist. During the first year, water regularly to help establish strong roots, particularly during dry spells. Once mature, Acacia trees are drought-tolerant and require minimal watering, needing occasional deep watering during prolonged periods of heat. Avoid waterlogging the soil, as Acacia trees prefer slightly dry conditions once established.
How to Plant
To plant an Acacia tree, choose a sunny location with well-draining, neutral to slightly acidic soil. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and deep enough to ensure the tree is planted at the same level as it was in its container. Soak the root ball in water before planting to prevent shock. Position the tree, backfill the hole, and firm the soil gently around the base. Water thoroughly and apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping the mulch away from the trunk.