SafePlants

Acacia verniciflua: The Varnish Wattle

Acacia verniciflua, commonly known as Varnish Wattle, is an intriguing plant native to Australia. This species exhibits a variable growth habit, from a shrub to a small tree, making it a versatile addition to various landscapes.

Considerations for Pets

• Some *Acacia* species are noted for having thorns or sharp points. The text also mentions "akakia" derived from words meaning "sharp point or thorn".

Considerations for Children

• Some *Acacia* species are noted for having thorns or sharp points. The text also mentions "akakia" derived from words meaning "sharp point or thorn".

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Acacia verniciflua A. Cunn. in B.Field, Geogr. Mem. New South Wales 344 (1825)
• Common Name: Varnish Wattle
• Family: Fabaceae (also referred to as LEGUMINOSAE-MIMOSOIDEAE and Mimosaceae)
• Subfamily: Unspecified, but the text mentions Acacia subgenus Phyllodineae
• Synonyms/Alternative Names:
  • Acacia virgata Lodd., G.Lodd. & W.Lodd., nom. inval.
  • Acacia verniciflua var. latifolia Benth.
• Taxonomic Rank: Species. The text also notes a forma: *Acacia verniciflua* fth variant *Acacia verniciflua* (Bacchus Marsh variant). It also mentions a variety *Acacia verniciflua* var. *pendula* Seem.

Distribution and Habitat

• Endemic to Australia.
• Widespread species occurring naturally in dry sclerophyll forest on the east coast of Australia.
• Sightings reported in Namadgi National Park and Lower Cotter Catchment.

Morphological Characteristics

• Variable shrub to 4 meters in height, generally erect and sparsely branched.
• Can be an erect or spreading shrub, or a small bushy tree.
• Young growth is shiny, giving rise to the common name "Varnish Wattle".
• Phyllodes are 4-10 cm long, relatively broad, and shining green.
• Produces masses of bright yellow ball flowers, typically flowering in Winter/Spring.

Genetic Information

• The text references a morphometric study of a hybrid population of *Acacia verniciflua* and *A. aspera*.
• *Acacia verniciflua* A.Cunn. and *A. leprosa* Sieber ex DC. are believed to be closely related.

Quirky Facts

• The name *Acacia* comes from the Greek word "akakia," derived from "ake" or "akis" meaning a sharp point or thorn, and "akazo" meaning to sharpen.

Further Information

• PlantNET: http://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Acacia~verniciflua
• Encyclopedia of Life
• Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew Herbarium
• B and T World Seeds' database
• Discover Life
• Dave's Garden