Silver Wattle
Acacia dealbatafam. Fabaceae
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Pl. 5E4C — Acacia dealbata
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IOverview
Overview
Acacia dealbata, commonly known as the Silver Wattle, is a large shrub or small tree native to New South Wales, Tasmania, and Victoria in Australia. This member of the Fabaceae family thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types including light (sandy) and medium textures. Known for its ornamental value with silver-gray foliage and fragrant yellow flowers, Acacia dealbata is also edible, with its flowers being the only part suitable for consumption. Reaching heights of up to 25 meters, this tree is a striking addition to gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Silver Wattle?
Acacia dealbata, commonly known as the Silver Wattle, is a large shrub or small tree native to New South Wales, Tasmania, and Victoria in Australia.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Acacia dealbata thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil that is light (sandy) or medium. It can tolerate dry conditions but also performs well in moist environments. This tree grows up to 25 meters tall and is hardy in temperate regions, specifically zones 7-10. For propagation, use cuttings or seeds. Harvest the edible flowers for culinary uses.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
7-10
Mature size
25.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Silver Wattle for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple Silver Wattle to gain experience in gardening basics.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Silver Wattle plant, garden gloves, and a trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring or autumn when the weather is mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure soil is well-draining. Amend with compost if needed.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants directly into the garden, spacing them 3-4 meters apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to help establish roots. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water during dry spells and prune lightly in late winter or early spring.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too close together, neglecting pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Flowers
Edible uses: Gum
Other uses:DyeGumErosion controlTanninNitrogen fixerFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
3 native · 27 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 27 introducedDistribution across4 continents· 3 native· 27 introduced
Europe5 regions
introduced (5)AlbaniaFranceItalyPortugalSpain
Asia2 regions
introduced (2)ChinaIndia
Americas5 regions
introduced (5)Costa RicaEcuadorGuatemalaHaitiJamaica
Africa1 region
introduced (1)Ethiopia
Broader regions
native:New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania
introduced:Argentina Northeast, Cape Provinces, California, Brazil South, Easter Is., Free State, Chile Central, Chile South, Desventurados Is., East Himalaya, Amsterdam-St.Paul Is, Juan Fernández Is.
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Fabaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Fabaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 5e4cd613-fbf3-4509-b9e1-0b80f9f49cb4
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