Gold-dust acacia (Acacia acinacea, T.L.Mitchell, Three Exped. Australia 2: 267 (1838))

Family: Fabaceae

Author: Lindl.

Bibliography: T.L.Mitchell, Three Exped. Australia 2: 267 (1838)

Year: 1838

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Acacia

Vegetable: False

Observations: SE. Australia

Description

Gold-dust acacia, known scientifically as Acacia acinacea, is a captivating plant species hailing from the southeastern regions of Australia. First documented by T.L. Mitchell in his work “Three Expeditions into the Interior of Eastern Australia,” published in 1838, and subsequently classified by the eminent botanist John Lindley, this member of the Fabaceae family has drawn attention for its distinctive characteristics and ecological significance.

Acacia acinacea is admired for its vibrant golden-yellow flowers, which cluster like specks of gold dust against its typically lush, green foliage. These flowers usually bloom in the spring, creating a striking visual contrast that not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of its surroundings but also attracts a plethora of pollinators, playing a crucial role in local ecosystems.

This evergreen shrub varies in height, generally reaching between one to two meters tall, making it a versatile choice for gardeners looking to add a splash of color to their landscapes. The plant exhibits a robust nature, thriving in a range of soil types, though it prefers well-drained soils, and demonstrates considerable drought resistance once established. This resilience adds to its appeal for cultivation in regions with challenging growing conditions.

The leaves of the Gold-dust acacia are small, phyllode-like, smooth, and arranged alternately on the stem, adding a delicate texture to its overall appearance. The plant’s ability to fix nitrogen in the soil also contributes to its environmental importance, enriching the soil and supporting the growth of surrounding vegetation.

In the wild, Acacia acinacea predominantly occupies woodland and forest margins, where it plays a significant part in maintaining the health and stability of these natural habitats. Its presence not only supports biodiversity but also helps in soil stabilization and the prevention of erosion.

Whether admired in a domestic garden or observed in its natural Australian habitat, the Gold-dust acacia stands as a testament to the intricate beauty and resilience of native flora. Its enduring presence and ecological contributions make it a species worthy of admiration and study.

Common Names

Eng: gold-dust acacia, gold-dust wattle
En: Gold-dust acacia, Gold-dust wattle, Round-leaved Wattle
De: Goldstaub-Akazie
Fa: اقاقیا اسیناسیا

Synonyms

• Acacia rotundifolia (Hook.)
• Acacia ovata (Anon.)
• Acacia latrobei (Meisn.)
• Acacia acinacea var. brevipedunculata (Regel)
• Racosperma acinaceum ((Lindl.) Pedley)
• Acacia cyclophylla (Schltdl.)

Distribution

• New South Wales (native)
• South Australia (native)
• Victoria (native)
• India (introduced)
• Tasmania (introduced)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken May 31, 2022 by Страхил Иванов (cc-by-sa)

Taken Apr 8, 2022 by Renzo Ricaldi Rojas (cc-by-sa)

Taken Sep 12, 2022 by Steven Wilson (cc-by-sa)

Taken Oct 2, 2021 by Sophia Horomidis (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Oct 2, 2021 by Sophia Horomidis (cc-by-sa)

Fruit

Taken Jan 13, 2021 by Mary Graham (cc-by-sa)

© 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/2979868)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:469635-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Acacia acinacea Lindl.)

Specifications

Growth