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Acacia holosericea

Acacia holosericeafam. Fabaceae
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edibleshrubsdrought tolerantedibleedible fruitnative australiatree
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Acacia holosericea (Acacia holosericea) — botanical photograph
Pl. B387 — Acacia holosericea
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Overview

Acacia holosericea, a shrub belonging to the Fabaceae family, is native to the arid and semi-arid regions of Northern Territory, Queensland, and Western Australia. Thriving in full sun, this fast-growing plant can reach a height of 3 meters and is adaptable to various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils. Its distinctive silvery, velvety foliage provides a unique appearance, making it an ornamental choice for gardens. Acacia holosericea is valued for its edible parts, particularly the seeds and seedpods, which are a valuable food source in its native range. Both the seeds and seedpods can be eaten raw or cooked, offering a nutritious alternative for local communities. The plant has been introduced to Burkina, Guinea, and New Guinea, where it continues to provide valuable food resources. While not known for medicinal uses, its edible parts make it an important plant for local communities.

Quick answers

What is Acacia holosericea?

Acacia holosericea, a shrub belonging to the Fabaceae family, is native to the arid and semi-arid regions of Northern Territory, Queensland, and Western Australia.

Compare with:Acacia mearnsii→Adenanthera pavonina→African Locust Bean→all comparisons →
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Acacia holosericea thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in temperate regions with a temperature range of 10-12. The plant can grow up to 3 meters tall and is native to Northern Territory, Queensland, and Western Australia. For propagation, seeds and seedpods can be used. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist to support healthy growth.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
3.0 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Acacia holosericea for the first time

8steps

Start with Acacia holosericea as a simple, low-maintenance addition to your garden.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds or seedlings, potting mix, watering can.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring when the weather starts warming up.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Use a well-draining soil mix suitable for general plants. Ensure containers have drainage holes.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds into the ground or start them in small pots before transplanting to larger ones if needed.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Place in a sunny spot.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide full sun and regular watering until established. Prune lightly to shape as needed.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune branches for shaping or remove dead wood to maintain health. Flowers are not typically harvested.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting sun exposure.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:SeedSeedpod
Edible uses: The Acacia holosericea is edible, with both the seed and seedpod being consumed. The seeds can be eaten raw or cooked, while the seedpods are typically prepared by cooking them. These parts of the plant are a valuable food source in their native range of Northern Territory, Queensland, and Western Australia.
Other uses:Nitrogen fixer
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

3 native · 3 introduced
Distribution across1 continent· 3 native· 3 introduced
Africa2 regions
introduced (2)Burkina FasoGuinea
Broader regions
native:Northern Territory, Queensland, Western Australia
introduced:New Guinea
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Acacia holosericea (Acacia holosericea) — botanical photograph
Acacia holosericea (Acacia holosericea)
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See also

8 related
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Explore further

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About this entry

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