SafePlants

Cootamundra Wattle (Acacia baileyana)

The Cootamundra Wattle, scientifically known as Acacia baileyana, is a popular ornamental tree or shrub cherished for its graceful appearance and vibrant winter blooms.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant has fern-like foliage.
• This plant has seeds and pods.

Considerations for Children

• This plant has seeds and pods.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Acacia baileyana F. Muell.
• Common Names: Cootamundra Wattle

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to a small area between Cootamundra and Temora in NSW, Australia. Specifically, the Temora, Cootamundra, Stockinbingal district in N.S.W.
• Grows naturally in open woodland, in stony, undulating or hilly country, on granites and porphyries.
• Widely cultivated in parks, gardens, and as a street tree in temperate regions of Australia.

Ecological Role

• While native to Australia, it has become invasive outside its original range.
• Cootamundra wattle is a widely cultivated species that invades drier areas where annual rainfall exceeds 400 mm and is found on a range of soil types.
• Considered troublesome in some regions.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Typically a bushy shrub or small tree, reaching 3-10 meters in height, but can grow up to 10 m high by 6 m across.
• Features smooth grey to brown bark.
• Known for its silvery to blue-grey, bipinnate leaves with linear leaflets, resembling fern-like foliage. The main leaf axis is 10-25(30) cm long. Young shoots can be deep purple-red.
• Produces abundant golden-yellow flowers in winter.
• Evergreen.
• Fast growing.

Quirky Facts

• Acacia baileyana is the floral emblem of the small rural township of Cootamundra.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Abundant yellow flowers in winter provide good bee forage.

Further Information

• RHS (Royal Horticultural Society) offers help and information on Acacia baileyana.
• Dave's Garden is a community that shares tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.