Golden Wattle

Acacia pycnantha

Physical Characteristics

Acacia pycnantha is an evergreen Tree growing to 8 m (26ft 3in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower from March to May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Australia - New South Wales, Southern Australia, Victoria.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Sunny Edge; South Wall. By. West Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Flowers Edible Uses: Gum Flowers - cooked[144]. Rich in pollen, they are often used in fritters. The plant yields an oily gum which is said to be edible[177, 183]. Some species produce a gum that is dark and is liable to be astringent and distasteful, but others produce a light gum and this is sweet and pleasant. It can be sucked like candy or soaked in water to make a jelly.[193]. The gum can be warmed when it becomes soft and chewable[193].

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known