Burra acacia (Acacia falcata, Sp. Pl. ed. 4. 4: 1053 (1806))

Family: Fabaceae

Author: Willd.

Bibliography: Sp. Pl. ed. 4. 4: 1053 (1806)

Year: 1806

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Acacia

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: E. Australia

Description

Burra acacia, known scientifically as Acacia falcata, is a notable member of the Fabaceae family, predominantly found in Eastern Australia. This resilient species was first officially documented by the botanist Willdenow in the year 1806, featuring prominently in his publication.

Acacia falcata is distinguished by its characteristic falcate, or sickle-shaped, phyllodes, which are a distinctive adaptation allowing the plant to thrive in its native arid environments. These phyllodes, serving as modified leaf stems, are integral in minimizing water loss, a critical feature for survival in the sometimes harsh climatic conditions of Eastern Australia.

Burra acacia typically grows as a shrub or small tree, and its inflorescence presents as clusters of yellow, spherical flower heads. These blossoms not only enhance the shrub’s visual appeal but also play a vital role in the local ecosystem by attracting various pollinators, including bees.

In addition to its ecological importance, Acacia falcata has applications in horticulture and environmental management. It is often utilized in soil stabilization projects due to its robust root system that helps prevent erosion. Its adaptability to different soil types and resilience against drought make it an ideal candidate for reforestation and land reclamation efforts.

The cultural significance of Burra acacia cannot be overlooked, as it is part of the rich biodiversity that shapes the Australian landscape. This hardy plant serves as a living testament to the adaptability and resilience of native flora, thriving in environments that challenge many other species.

Common Names

Eng: burra acacia
En: Burra acacia
Fa: آکاکیا فالکاتا

Synonyms

• Mimosa obliqua (J.C.Wendl.)
• Acacia falcata var. minor (Colla)
• Racosperma falcatum ((Willd.) Pedley)
• Acacia obliqua (Desv.)

Distribution

• New South Wales (native)
• Queensland (native)
• Jawa (introduced)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Jul 8, 2022 by Mairead Young (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 2, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 2, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jul 15, 2022 by Giorgio Jetson (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 8, 2022 by Mairead Young (cc-by-sa)

Taken May 2, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken May 2, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

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

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

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

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2979519)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:470299-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Acacia falcata Willd.)

Specifications

Growth