Cedar wattle (Acacia terminalis, Contr. Gray Herb. 59: 7 (1919))

Family: Fabaceae

Author: (Salisb.) J.F.Macbr.

Bibliography: Contr. Gray Herb. 59: 7 (1919)

Year: 1919

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Acacia

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: SE. Australia

Description

Cedar wattle, known scientifically as Acacia terminalis, is a remarkable species belonging to the Fabaceae family. Noted for its presence in Southeastern Australia, this plant stands out in both botanical and ecological communities.

Acacia terminalis, or Cedar wattle, garners attention through its delicate foliage and vibrant yellow flowers that typically bloom in the spring and summer months. The flowers are arranged in small, spherical clusters, which add a striking aesthetic appeal to its natural habitat. These blooms are not only a visual delight but also play a significant role in the local ecology by attracting a variety of pollinators, thus contributing to biodiversity.

The Cedar wattle thrives in a range of environments, often noted in heathlands and open forests, where it adapts to various soil types, including sandy and loamy soils. Its resilience and adaptability make it an important species for land restoration projects and habitat conservation efforts, especially in the regions of Southeastern Australia where it is predominantly observed.

The foliage of Cedar wattle is another distinguishing feature. Its phyllodes—modified leaf structures—are typically narrow and elongated, providing a dense canopy that offers shade and shelter for various fauna. This attribute not only enhances the plant’s survival but also supports the surrounding ecosystem.

Historically, Acacia terminalis has been referenced in botanical literature, with one notable mention being in the “Contributions from the Gray Herbarium” (Contr. Gray Herb. 59: 7) published in 1919. The classification and nomenclature provided by (Salisb.) J.F.Macbr. have been crucial in understanding and documenting the species.

In summary, Cedar wattle (Acacia terminalis) embodies both ecological significance and botanical interest. Its vibrant flowers, adaptable nature, and integral role in habitat support underscore its importance in the Australian landscape.

Common Names

Eng: cedar wattle, peppermint-tree wattle, sunshine wattle
En: Cedar wattle, Peppermint-tree wattle, Sunshine wattle

Synonyms

• Mimosa terminalis (Salisb.)
• Acacia discolor ((Andrews) Willd.)
• Acacia discolor var. glabra (Benth.)
• Acacia discolor var. angustifolia (Benth.)
• Acacia discolor var. unijuga (Wawra)
• Mimosa botrycephala (Vent.)
• Acacia discolor var. fraseri (Benth.)
• Mimosa discolor (Andrews)
• Acacia botrycephala ((Vent.) Desf.)
• Mimosa pinnata (Cels ex Dum.Cours.)
• Acacia maritima (Benth.)
• Acacia paniculata (J.F.Macbr.)
• Racosperma terminale ((Salisb.) Pedley)
• Acacia discolor var. maritima ((Benth.) Hook.f.)

Distribution

• New South Wales (native)
• Tasmania (native)
• Victoria (native)
• Cape Provinces (introduced)
• India (introduced)
• Northern Provinces (introduced)

Additional Images

Flower

Taken Jul 9, 2021 by Diego Alex (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 26, 2022 by Michal Svit (cc-by-sa)

Taken Nov 9, 2022 by Max Toulouse (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 19, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 19, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Nov 9, 2022 by Max Toulouse (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 25, 2022 by Troy Pentecost (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 25, 2022 by Troy Pentecost (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jul 30, 2022 by Troy Pentecost (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 19, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Nov 9, 2022 by Max Toulouse (cc-by-sa)

Taken Mar 19, 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)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:471643-1)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2978771)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Acacia terminalis (Salisb.) J.F.Macbr.)

Specifications

Growth