Acacia longifolia – Sydney Golden Wattle

Description

Acacia longifolia – Sydney Golden Wattle

Family: Fabaceae
Packet Size: 50 seeds

Description

Acacia longifolia, known as Sydney Golden Wattle or Long-leaved Wattle, is a hardy Australian native shrub or small tree recognised by its elongated green leaves and conspicuous golden flower spikes.

In late winter and spring, bright yellow cylindrical flower heads appear along the stems. Its relatively quick growth and leafy habit have made it popular for informal screening and low-maintenance native planting, where the species is locally suitable.

Key Features

• Flowers: Bright golden-yellow spikes, mainly from late winter into spring.
• Foliage: Long, flat green leaves with clear longitudinal veins.
• Plant habit: Large shrub to small tree, commonly up to about 6 m tall.
• Garden uses: Informal screens, native garden features and selected revegetation sites.

Growing Conditions

• Position: Full sun to light shade.
• Soil: Adaptable to varied soils with adequate drainage; avoid waterlogged positions.
• Watering: Water seedlings regularly until established.
• Climate: Tolerant of a range of temperate eastern Australian conditions and some frost.
• Pruning: Light pruning after flowering can maintain a more compact screening shape.

Seed Propagation

• Prepare: For the hard seed coat, gently rub a small area with fine sandpaper or carefully nick the coat without damaging the seed inside. Soak in room-temperature water for approximately 12–24 hours before sowing.
• Sow: Plant approximately 5 mm deep in a clean, freely draining seed-raising mix and firm gently.
• Position: Place in a warm, bright, sheltered spot out of harsh midday sun while seedlings are small.
• Moisture: Keep the mix evenly moist but not saturated.
• Germination: Timing varies with seed age, nicking or scratching the seed coat and temperature. Continue to monitor the tray if emergence is uneven.
• Transplant: Move seedlings to individual pots once they have established their first true leaves and can be handled safely.

Growing Note: Acacia longifolia can spread beyond its natural range and is considered an environmental weed in some regions. Check local advice and avoid planting near sensitive bushland where it is not indigenous.