SafePlants

Acacia auriculiformis: An Overview

Acacia auriculiformis, a member of the Fabaceae (Leguminosae/Pea) family, is known by several common names, including auri, earleaf acacia, earpod wattle, northern black wattle, Papuan wattle, tan wattle, and akashmoni (in Bengali). In Australia, it's also known as Darwin black wattle and blackwattle.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant produces seedpods.

Considerations for Children

• This plant produces seedpods.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Acacia auriculiformis A. Cunn. ex Benth.
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Family: Fabaceae (Leguminosae/Pea Family)
• Synonymy: None explicitly mentioned; however, be aware of possible confusion with Acacia auriculaeformis.

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to Australia, Papua New Guinea, and Indonesia.
• Introduced to Florida as an ornamental plant in 1932.

Ecological Impact

• Considered a prohibited invasive plant species in Florida.
• Invades pinelands and hammocks.
• Its use for ornamental landscaping in Florida is discouraged, particularly due to its susceptibility to wind damage in hurricane-prone areas.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Evergreen tree, unarmed.
• Fast-growing, reaching heights of up to 90 feet, but more commonly around 40-50 feet with a spread of 25-30 feet.
• Can exhibit a crooked, gnarly appearance.
• Branches are erect with drooping branchlets.
• Leaves are described as blade-like, crescent-shaped, simple, narrow, often curved, stiff, and 5-8 inches long (up to 15 cm). The veins run parallel to the leaf.
• Forms spiral seedpods.
• Characterized as a weak-wooded, spindly tree.

Potential Uses

• Historically used for tanning materials.
• Being investigated for its feasibility in reclaiming zinc-contaminated areas.

Further Resources

• USDA PLANTS Database (Symbol: ACAU)
• Invasive Plant Atlas
• Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS)