Golden wattle

Golden wattle

Acacia pycnantha

Common Name:

Golden wattle

Scientific Name:

Acacia pycnantha


Alternative common names:

Broad-leaf wattle; Gouewattel (Afrikaans)

Description:

Slender, evergreen tree 4-8m high with drooping branches and dull green, leathery, distinctly curved leaves. Bright yellow, spherical flowerheads in large sprays from August to September. Brown, almost straight pods.

Additional Information


Where does this species come from?

Australia

What is its invasive status in South Africa?

Existing legislation: CARA 2002 - Category 1 NEMBA - Category 1b

Where in South Africa is it a problem?

Western Cape and Eastern Cape

How does it spread?

Seed dispersal

Why is it a problem?

Competes with and replaces indigenous species. Invades coastal and mountain fynbos, rivers, roadsides.

What does it look like?

General description: Slender, evergreen tree 4-8m high with drooping branches and dull green, leathery, curved leaves.
Leaves: Long, distinctly curved, dull green leathery leaves.
Flowers: Bright yellow globe-shaped flowerheads in large sprays, August-September
Fruit/seeds: Almost straight brown pods.

Does the plant have any uses?

Cultivates for dune reclamation

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