Acacia saligna – Golden Wreath Wattle

Description

Acacia saligna – Golden Wreath Wattle

Family: Fabaceae
Packet Size: 40 seeds

Description

Acacia saligna (syn. Acacia cyanophylla), commonly known as Golden Wreath Wattle or Orange Wattle, is a fast-growing shrub or small tree native to Western Australia. Its long, sometimes bluish-green leaves and often arching branches create a distinctive flowing habit.

In spring, showy clusters of large, golden-yellow flower balls brighten the foliage. The species tolerates exposed conditions and salt-laden winds, but it can spread readily beyond its natural range, so planting suitability should be considered carefully.

Key Features

• Flowers: Large bright-gold, ball-shaped flowers, usually in spring.
• Foliage: Long, narrow to broadly lance-shaped leaves, sometimes bluish in tone.
• Habit: Fast-growing spreading shrub or small tree, potentially around 10 m tall.
• Garden uses: Screening or shelter only where local conditions and weed guidelines permit.

Growing Conditions

• Position: Full sun.
• Soil: Adaptable to many reasonably free-draining soil types.
• Watering: Water during establishment; established plants can cope with periods of dryness.
• Climate: Adaptable to exposed coastal sites and salt spray.
• Management: Monitor for natural regeneration and remove unwanted seedlings promptly.

Seed Propagation

• Prepare: Wattle seeds usually have a hard seed coat. Carefully nick the coat or gently rub one side with fine sandpaper, avoiding the embryo. Soak in room-temperature water for about 12–24 hours before sowing.
• Sow: Place seeds about 5 mm deep in moist, freely draining seed-raising mix.
• Position: Keep in a warm, bright, sheltered position, away from harsh afternoon sun while seedlings are small.
• Moisture: Keep the medium evenly moist but not waterlogged.
• Germination: Germination varies with seed age, temperature and nicking or scratching the seed coat. Allow additional time if some seed coats remain firm.
• Transplant: Move seedlings into individual pots once they have true leaves and can be handled safely.

Growing Note: Golden Wreath Wattle is an environmental weed in parts of eastern Australia, including north-eastern New South Wales. Check local biosecurity advice before planting and do not allow it to spread into bushland.