Acacia linifolia, White or Flax-leaved Wattle
Acacia linifolia is known as the White or Flax-leaved Wattle and is a tall shrub or small tree. In our cold climate garden plants reach a height of four metres. Branches are pendulous.
The phyllodes are crowded, linear, flat and up to 40 millimetres long. There is a small, almost obscure, gland near the centre of the phyllodes.
Yellow flowers are carried in globular heads. Branches are covered by blooms in early spring. They are followed by oblong pods (see thumbnail).
Growth habit, foliage and flowers are all attractive features.
Acacia linifolia would be an ideal specimen for informal hedges and screens. The species appreciates light pruning occasionally.
Acacia linifolia is a New South Wales species whose distribution extends from Bega in the south to Dubbo in the west.
Acacia linifolia has an interesting horticultural history.
The species was introduced into England in 1790. It was among the first plant importations from Australia and was recorded as growing in a London nursery in 1810. Flax-leaved Wattle was its common name then. Plants flowered well in conservatories and greenhouses but did not set viable seed.
In our cold climate garden, there is no problem with viable seed set. Because of their hard coats, seeds require soaking in boiling water before sowing.
The species name means foliage similar to Linum (Flax).
Warren and Gloria Sheather