Long-leaved wattle

Long-leaved wattle

Acacia longifolia

Common Name:

Long-leaved wattle

Scientific Name:

Acacia longifolia


Alternative common names:

Langblaarwattel (Afrikaans)

Description:

The long-leaved wattle is an evergreen shrub or spreading tree 2-6m high, with long bright green leaves that have prominent longitudinal veins. Flowers are bright yellow and cylindrical in shape, growing up to 50mm long and 7mm wide, from July to September. Originating from Australia and Tasmania, the long-leaved was cultivated in South Africa for dune reclamation, and has spread along the coastal areas, where it competes with and replaces invasive species.

Additional Information


Where does this species come from?

South-east Australia and Tasmania

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, Eastern Cape, Kwa-Zulu Natal and scattered parts of Mpumalanga Province

How does it spread?

Seed dispersal

Why is it a problem?

It is a transformer species which out-competes indigenous species.

What does it look like?

General description: The long-leaved wattle is an evergreen shrub or spreading tree 2-6m high, with long bright green leaves that have prominent longitudinal veins.
Leaves: Leaves are bright green, up to 180mm long, with 2-5 prominent longitudinal veins
Flowers: Bright yellow, cylindrical flowerheads, from July to September
Fruit/seeds: Pale brown pods

Does the plant have any uses?

Cultivated for dune reclamation.

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