Juniper wattle (Acacia ulicifolia, Vict. Naturalist 73: 173 (1957))

Family: Fabaceae

Author: (Salisb.) Court

Bibliography: Vict. Naturalist 73: 173 (1957)

Year: 1957

Status: accepted

Rank: species

Genus: Acacia

Vegetable: Unknown

Observations: E. & SE. Australia

Description

The Juniper Wattle, scientifically recognized as Acacia ulicifolia, is a remarkable species native to Australia. As a member of the vast Fabaceae family, this shrub is predominantly distributed across the eastern and southeastern regions of the country, contributing to the local biodiversity.

Acacia ulicifolia is esteemed not only for its ecological significance but also for its aesthetic appeal. The plant exhibits an intricate pattern of fine, needle-like foliage that mirrors the appearance of juniper, hence its common name, “Juniper Wattle.” This resemblance, paired with its robust adaptability, makes it a noteworthy species in Australian flora.

This hardy shrub thrives in a variety of environments, demonstrating its versatility across various soil types and climatic conditions found in its native territory. The Juniper Wattle plays a crucial role in local ecosystems, providing shelter and nourishment to an array of wildlife. Its flowering phase yields delicate, yellow blossoms, enhancing the visual allure of Australian landscapes during its bloom period.

The classification of this species was articulated by botanist Court in a 1957 volume of the Victoria Naturalist, solidifying its botanical credentials and ensuring its recognition in scientific literature.

In summary, Acacia ulicifolia stands as a notable representation of Australia’s unique plant life, offering ecological benefits and ornamental value. Its enduring presence in eastern and southeastern Australia underscores the plant’s resilience and importance within the natural world.

Common Names

Eng: juniper wattle, prickly moses
En: Juniper wattle, Prickly moses, Prickly-leaved wattle

Synonyms

• Acacia pungens (Spreng.)
• Racosperma ulicifolium ((Salisb.) Pedley)
• Acacia juniperina ((Vent.) Willd.)
• Phyllodoce juniperina ((Vent.) Link)
• Acacia verticillata (Sieber ex Benth.)
• Mimosa juniperina (Vent.)
• Acacia dillwynifolia (Jacob-Makoy)
• Acacia juniperina var. typica (Domin)
• Mimosa ulicifolia (Salisb.)

Distribution

• New South Wales (native)
• Queensland (native)
• Tasmania (native)
• Victoria (native)

Additional Images

© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.

Flower

Taken Jun 10, 2022 by di drew (cc-by-sa)

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

Taken Sep 15, 2020 by Rebecca Goodacre (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jun 10, 2022 by di drew (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 26, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Leaf

Taken Jan 26, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Taken Jan 26, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Habit

Taken Jan 26, 2022 by Boris Therock (cc-by-sa)

Sources

• WFO (No URL)
• IPNI (No URL)
• POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:471703-1)
• GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2978369)
• PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Acacia ulicifolia (Salisb.) Court)

Specifications

Growth