Other Names:  Blackwood Acacia, Tasmanian Blackwood

Description:

A graceful large growing tree that develops a bushy crown; densely arranged, narrow foliage starts out gray, turning dark dull green; yellow catkins appear nearly year-round, contrasting fissured, dark grey to black bark; drought tolerant once established

Ornamental Features

Australian Blackwood features showy buttery yellow catkins along the branches from late winter to mid fall. It has attractive grayish green foliage with hints of silver. The narrow bipinnately compound leaves are highly ornamental and remain grayish green throughout the winter. The fruits are showy coppery-bronze pods displayed from mid summer to early winter. The fruit can be messy if allowed to drop on the lawn or walkways, and may require occasional clean-up. The furrowed dark gray bark adds an interesting dimension to the landscape.

Landscape Attributes

Australian Blackwood is a multi-stemmed evergreen tree with an upright spreading habit of growth. Its relatively fine texture sets it apart from other landscape plants with less refined foliage.

This is a relatively low maintenance tree, and can be pruned at anytime. It is a good choice for attracting birds, bees and butterflies to your yard, but is not particularly attractive to deer who tend to leave it alone in favor of tastier treats. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

• Spreading
• Invasive
• Self-Seeding

Australian Blackwood is recommended for the following landscape applications;

• Accent
• Shade
• Mass Planting
• Hedges/Screening

Planting & Growing

Australian Blackwood will grow to be about 60 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 50 feet. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 3 feet from the ground, and should not be planted underneath power lines. It grows at a fast rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 60 years or more.

This tree does best in full sun to partial shade. It is very adaptable to both dry and moist locations, and should do just fine under average home landscape conditions. It is considered to be drought-tolerant, and thus makes an ideal choice for xeriscaping or the moisture-conserving landscape. This plant does not require much in the way of fertilizing once established. It is not particular as to soil pH, but grows best in poor soils. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments. This species is not originally from North America..