Family: Fabaceae
Author: A.Cunn. ex G.Don
Bibliography: Gen. Hist. 2: 407 (1832)
Year: 1832
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Acacia
Vegetable: False
Observations: N. & NC. Australia
Description
Candelabra Wattle (Acacia holosericea)
The Candelabra Wattle, known scientifically as Acacia holosericea, is a fascinating and resilient member of the Fabaceae family. Initially described in the early 19th century, this plant has captivated botanists and nature enthusiasts alike since its formal classification by A.Cunn., as recorded in G.Don’s “A General History of the Dichlamydeous Plants” in 1832.
Native to Northern and North-Central regions of Australia, the Candelabra Wattle thrives in this unique and often harsh environment. This plant is well-adapted to arid and semi-arid conditions, which is reflective of its robust nature and adaptability. The natural habitats in which it prospers are indicative of its remarkable ability to withstand periods of drought and poor soil conditions, making it a crucial component of the Australian flora.
The Candelabra Wattle is noted for its striking appearance, characterized by an umbrella-like canopy that resembles a candelabrum, hence its common name. The foliage is distinguished by silky, feather-like leaves that add a delicate texture to its robust structure. Its vibrant golden-yellow flowers, blooming in large, spherical clusters, are not only aesthetically pleasing but also play an essential role in the ecosystem by providing nectar for a variety of pollinators.
In addition to its environmental adaptability, Acacia holosericea holds significant importance for local Indigenous communities, who have utilized different parts of the plant for traditional medicinal purposes, as well as for making tools and weapons due to its durable wood.
Overall, the Candelabra Wattle stands as a symbol of nature’s resilience and beauty. Its ability to flourish under challenging conditions, coupled with its ecological and cultural significance, make it a valuable and celebrated species within the Australian landscape.
Common Names
Eng: candelabra wattle, silky wattle, silverleaf wattle
En: Candelabra wattle, Silky wattle, Silverleaf wattle
Synonyms
- Racosperma holosericeum var. glabratum ((Maiden) Pedley)
- Acacia holosericea var. multispirea (Domin)
- Acacia holosericea var. typica (Domin)
- Acacia mangium var. holosericea ((A.Cunn. ex G.Don) C.T.White)
- Racosperma holosericeum ((A.Cunn. ex G.Don) Pedley)
- Acacia multispirea (Domin)
Distribution
- Northern Territory (native)
- Queensland (native)
- Western Australia (native)
- Burkina (introduced)
- Guinea (introduced)
- New Guinea (introduced)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Oct 4, 2022 by matthew.g.brown26 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 14, 2021 by Martin Tlustos (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Oct 4, 2022 by matthew.g.brown26 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 14, 2021 by Martin Tlustos (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 26, 2021 by olivier parthiot (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Oct 14, 2021 by Martin Tlustos (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Dec 26, 2021 by olivier parthiot (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- WFO (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2978751)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:470538-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Acacia holosericea G.Don)
