Graceful wattle (Acacia decora, Iconogr. Bot. Exot. 2: t. 199 (1829))

Family: Fabaceae

Author: Rchb.

Bibliography: Iconogr. Bot. Exot. 2: t. 199 (1829)

Year: 1829

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Acacia

Vegetable: False

Observations: E. & SE. Australia

Description

Graceful wattle, known scientifically as Acacia decora, is an elegant and resilient member of the Fabaceae family. The distinguished German botanist, Rchb., first documented this species in his work “Iconographia Botanica Exotica” in 1829, solidifying its place in botanical literature.

This beautiful species of wattle is native to the varied landscapes of Eastern and Southeastern Australia. Here, it thrives in a variety of habitats, from open woodlands to rocky terrains, displaying both its adaptability and hardiness.

Achieving an esteemed status for its decorative appeal, Acacia decora is renowned for its bright yellow flower clusters that blossom in late winter to spring. These vibrant flowers provide a striking contrast against its finely divided, feathery foliage, making it a popular choice for ornamental gardens and landscaping projects.

Beyond its visual appeal, Acacia decora holds ecological significance. It enriches the soil through nitrogen fixation, a common trait among legumes, thereby supporting the health and sustainability of the surrounding ecosystem. It also offers food and habitat for various wildlife, contributing to the biodiversity of its native regions.

In summary, the graceful wattle, or Acacia decora, stands as a testament to nature’s beauty and versatility. Its historical documentation, coupled with its ecological contributions and ornamental virtues, underscores its enduring value in both natural and cultivated settings.

Common Names

Eng: graceful wattle, pretty wattle, showy wattle, western silver wattle
En: Graceful Wattle, Pretty Wattle, Western Golden Wattle, Showy wattle, Western silver wattle
: Graceful wattle

Synonyms

• Acacia decora var. biglandulosa (Domin)
• Acacia decora var. typica (Domin)
• Racosperma decorum ((Rchb.) Pedley)
• Acacia buxifolia var. decora (C.Moore)

Distribution

• New South Wales (native)
• Queensland (native)
• Victoria (native)
• India (introduced)

Additional Images

Leaf

Taken Sep 11, 2022 by Nickisht (cc-by-sa)

Bark

Taken Sep 11, 2022 by Nickisht (cc-by-sa)

Flower

Taken Sep 11, 2022 by Nickisht (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/2978514)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:470137-1)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Acacia decora Rchb.f.)

Specifications

Growth