Black Wattle

Acacia mearnsii

Black Wattle

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Fabaceae
Genus:
Acacia
Species:
Acacia mearnsii

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Shrub , Tree
Height:
More than 40 ft
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
mar, apr, may, jun, jul, aug
Bloom Colors:
yellow

Native Range

United States: California, Hawaii

Keystone Species Ranking

Caterpillar Keystone:
★★★☆☆ Based on number of butterfly and moth species using this genus as host plant (Source: National Wildlife Federation)

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Black Witch Moth (Ascalapha odorata)

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
4.5 - 6.5 (acidic to slightly acidic)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to southeastern Australia; often found in open forests and woodlands