MIMOSACEAE

Dagger Wattle

Rare 

1.0m (100cm) 

Yellow, numerous in a spherical head. Sepals and petals usually 5. 

Seed pods 

Rigid shrub 

Break O'Day; Central Highlands; Dorset; Glamorgan-Spring Bay; Launceston; Northern Midlands; Southern Midlands; West Tamar 

Montane Vegetation; Riparian 

Local in the east, north east and on the central plateau. Scattered in understorey of lower open forests, in tablelands and mountain country. Well drained rocky or sandy site, common near streams. Very hardy, tolerates frost and snow. 

Exposed; Moist; Rocky; Windy 

Hardy 

Fertile; Loam; Poorly-drained; Sandy; Well-drained 

Useful for providing low-level shelter (up to 3m) in windbreaks. Useful in erosion control as the fibrous roots help bind the soil. Improves soil fertility. The prickly foliage provides refuge for small birds. The flowers provide pollen for native moths, butterflies and other insects, which attract insect-eating birds. The nectar is an important food for insects and nectar-feeding b irds. The seed attract birds such as parrots and native pigeons.Resistant to Phytophthora cinnamomi. Susceptible to browsing by hares and rabbits. Suitable below powerlines. 

Pod linear , flat c.2.2cm long constricted between the seeds. seeds 6-10 black and shining. collect and store in paper bags in a warm spot until pods open. monitor seed as pods dropped soon after they turn brown 

Boiling water 

Long 

 

From scarified seed. Pour boiling water over the seed and allow to soak for 24 hours before sowing. Alternatively, boil the seed for 30-60 seconds before plunging it into cold water and sowing. Smoke treatment also might improve results. 

2-5 weeks 

Yes 

 

 

No 

Most Acacias are readily propagated by seed. Cuttings are possible with "phyllode bearing" Acacias, more so than with "feathery leaved" species.