Australian golden wattle (Acacia pycnantha, London J. Bot. 1: 351 (1842))

Family: Fabaceae

Author: Benth.

Bibliography: London J. Bot. 1: 351 (1842)

Year: 1842

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Acacia

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: SE. Australia

Description

The Australian golden wattle, known scientifically as Acacia pycnantha, is a prominent species within the Fabaceae family. This plant is celebrated for its vibrant golden-yellow blossoms that bloom from late winter to early spring, creating a spectacular display of color. These flowers, grouped in dense spherical clusters, not only add aesthetic value but also play a critical role in the ecosystem by providing a food source for various pollinators, including bees.

Native to southeastern Australia, the Australian golden wattle thrives in regions characterized by Mediterranean-type climate, marked by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. It is predominantly found in areas with well-drained soil, often on sandy or loamy terrains.

The leaves of Acacia pycnantha are another distinctive feature, actually modified structures called phyllodes, which are broad, flat, and serve the purpose of photosynthesis. These phyllodes are an adaptation to the harsh Australian environment, aiding in water conservation and providing resistance against drought conditions.

In terms of botanical research and historical context, Acacia pycnantha was initially described by the renowned botanist George Bentham in the publication “London Journal of Botany” in 1842. His extensive work in plant taxonomy laid the groundwork for understanding this species and its relatives within the Fabaceae family.

The Australian golden wattle holds not only ecological importance but also cultural significance. It is the national floral emblem of Australia, symbolizing unity and celebration during national events. The plant’s resilience and adaptability are seen as metaphors for the Australian spirit.

Overall, Acacia pycnantha exemplifies a remarkable blend of beauty, ecological function, and cultural value, making it a cherished plant both within its native habitat and beyond.

Common Names

Fra: acacia doré
Ita: acacia picnata, gaggia, mimosa
Eng: australian golden wattle, golden wattle, south australian golden wattle, broadleaf wattle, broad-leaved wattle
Deu: goldakazie
Afr: gouewattel
En: Australian golden wattle, South Australian golden wattle, Golden wattle, Broadleaf wattle, Broad-leaved Wattle, Sydney Golden Wattle, Green wattle
Af: Gouewattel
Ar: سنط كثيف الأزهار
Bn: সোনালী একাসিয়া
Fr: Acacia doré, Mimosa doré
De: Goldakazie, Gold-Akazie
Hi: अकेसिया प्यकनंथा
It: Acacia picnanta, Acacia picnata, Gaggia, Mimosa
Fa: اقاقیای طلایی
Ru: Акация густоцветковая

Synonyms

• Acacia falcinella (Meisn.)
• Acacia westonii (Maiden)
• Racosperma pycnanthum ((Benth.) Pedley)
• Acacia petiolaris (Lehm.)

Distribution

• New South Wales (native)
• South Australia (native)
• Victoria (native)
• California (introduced)
• Cameroon (introduced)
• Cape Provinces (introduced)
• Cyprus (introduced)
• India (introduced)
• Italy (introduced)
• Jawa (introduced)
• Morocco (introduced)
• Portugal (introduced)
• Sardegna (introduced)
• Spain (introduced)
• Tanzania (introduced)
• Tasmania (introduced)
• Western Australia (introduced)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Flower

Taken Dec 1, 2020 by laurent boniface (cc-by-sa)

Taken Dec 1, 2020 by laurent boniface (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 29, 2018 by anuska (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 1, 1900 by EOL − own work – eigene Aufnahme – Der_Michels (public)

Taken Mar 18, 2018 by Melinda Miller (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Dec 26, 2021 by Collados Ana (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 16, 2019 by Sinan Avcı (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 15, 2017 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken May 22, 2021 by Almudena Jiménez (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 3, 2011 by EOL − Arthur Chapman (cc-by-nc-sa)

Bark

Taken May 30, 2018 by Zugna Fulvio (cc-by-sa)

Taken Aug 16, 2019 by Sinan Avcı (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 1, 2022 by AJ G (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 28, 2021 by romy azar (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 23, 2021 by Monteiro Henrique (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Aug 28, 2022 by Ali (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 6, 2019 by cambiumgenera (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 8, 2021 by Cécile cailletaud (cc-by-sa)

Taken Feb 1, 2022 by AJ G (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 28, 2021 by romy azar (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Feb 14, 2020 by domi mulkens (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 6, 2011 by EOL − Valter Jacinto (cc-by-nc-sa)

Taken Aug 16, 2019 by Sinan Avcı (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 16, 2022 by Bernard Reynaud (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 17, 2020 by Sam van Rijswijk (cc-by-sa)

Other

Taken Feb 15, 2017 by Photoflora – Benoit BOCK (©)

Taken Feb 15, 2005 by Photoflora – Jean-Luc TASSET (©)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2978604)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:471275-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Acacia pycnantha Benth.)

Specifications

Growth