Acacia dealbata Link

Mimosaceae

Common name(s):

Black wattle, silver wattle, wattle, Tasmania mimosa (Australia)

Description:

This species, very closely related to A. mollissima, differs from the latter in the following ways:

- Grey bark;

- Greenish grey leaves, pinnae bearing 30-40 pairs of leaflets;

- Generally one single gland at the base of the pennae;

- Usually a shorter pod.

Distribution:

Native to Southern Australia. The species is adapted to the Mediterranean climate, but not to calcareous soils (calcifuge). It withstands relatively cold winters.

Products and uses:

Used as an ornamental tree with possible value as forage; leaves are relatively more palatable than those of A. mollissima. Produces a very viscous gum which might be as useful as the gum arabic from A. senegal.

Main References:

Baumer, M. 1983. Notes on Trees and Shrubs in Arid and Semi-arid Regions. FAO/UNEP programme “Ecological Management of Arid and Semi-Arid Rangelands in Africa, Near and Middle East” (EMASAR Phase II). 270p.