Dead finish (Acacia tetragonophylla, J. Proc. Linn. Soc., Bot. 3: 121 (1859))

Family: Fabaceae

Author: F.Muell.

Bibliography: J. Proc. Linn. Soc., Bot. 3: 121 (1859)

Year: 1859

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Acacia

Vegetable: False

Observations: Australia

Description

Dead Finish (Acacia tetragonophylla)

The Dead Finish, scientifically known as Acacia tetragonophylla, is a distinct and resilient shrub native to Australia. Identified and named by the renowned botanist F. Muell in 1859, this plant is a fascinating specimen within the Fabaceae family.

Acacia tetragonophylla is well-adapted to the harsh and arid environments typical of its native landscape. Its unique physical characteristics include sharply pointed phyllodes that serve as leaves, making it highly drought-resistant. These adaptations not only enable the plant to survive with minimal water but also to thrive in some of the most challenging conditions on the continent.

The Dead Finish plays a crucial role in its ecosystem, offering both habitat and food sources to various wildlife. Its robust structure provides shelter for small animals, while its flowers are a vital source of nectar for pollinators. The plant’s ability to fix nitrogen in the soil also contributes to soil fertility, supporting the growth of other vegetation in its surroundings.

Historically, various indigenous communities have utilized parts of the Acacia tetragonophylla for medicinal purposes, showcasing its importance beyond mere ecological contributions. Its tough wood has also been used in tool making and as a reliable fuel source.

Despite its ruggedness, this plant is a symbol of endurance and life in one of the planet’s most unforgiving terrains. Acacia tetragonophylla remains a subject of interest for botanists and ecologists alike, as noted in its initial identification published in the Journal of the Proceedings of the Linnean Society, Botany in the mid-19th century.

Understanding and appreciating plants like the Dead Finish not only highlights the incredible diversity of flora in Australia but also underscores the intricate relationships within ecosystems that sustain biodiversity.

Common Names

Eng: dead finish
En: Dead finish

Synonyms

• Acacia genistoides (A.Cunn. ex Benth.)
• Racosperma tetragonophyllum ((F.Muell.) Pedley)

Distribution

• New South Wales (native)
• Northern Territory (native)
• Queensland (native)
• South Australia (native)
• Western Australia (native)

Additional Images

© 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.

Flower

Taken Aug 8, 2022 by Nickisht (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Aug 8, 2022 by Nickisht (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2978633)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:471647-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Acacia tetragonophylla F.Muell.)

Specifications

Growth