No images found for this plant ID: 533.
Ensure images are uploaded to the Media Library and tagged with "533" in the "plant_image_tag" taxonomy.
fern-leaf acacia
Scientific Name: Acacia pennatula
Family: Fabaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth:
Duration:
Other Names:
Acacia baileyana (Fernleaf Acacia)
Acacia baileyana, commonly known as Fernleaf Acacia, is a fast-growing small evergreen tree prized for its unique and attractive foliage.
Considerations for Pets
- Many pinnate-leaf acacias produce sharp spines.
Considerations for Children
- Many pinnate-leaf acacias produce sharp spines.
Common Names
- Fernleaf Acacia
- Cootamundra Wattle (in Australia)
- Purple Fernleaf Acacia
- Bailey's Purple Acacia 'Purpurea'
- Feather-Leaf Acacia
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Family: Fabaceae (Pea)
- Subfamily: Mimosoideae
- Synonyms:
- Acacia filicifolia Cheel & M.B.Welch
- Vachellia pennatula (Schltdl. & Cham.) Seigler & Ebinger (formerly Acacia pennatula)
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits
- Typically grows up to 20 feet tall with a wide-spreading canopy reaching 20 to 40 feet.
- The variety 'Purpurea' exhibits silvery blue-gray feathery leaves tinged with purple.
- Leaves are evergreen and fern-like, 2-pinnate, up to 5cm (2in) long, composed of 16-40 tiny, linear leaflets.
- Fragrant yellow flowers bloom from winter to spring.
Distribution and Habitat
- Fernleaf acacia is adaptable and can thrive from warm temperate to tropical zones.
- It grows successfully at elevations from sea level up to 2,600 meters.
Ecological Role
- The plant exhibits moderate litter production.
Additional Information
- Acacia baileyana 'Purpurea' is favored for cut foliage, particularly its fern-like leaves.
- This acacia is drought tolerant, making it suitable for xeriscapes.