Family:

Fabaceae

Acacia rigens

Needle Wattle

Other Names: Needlebush Acacia, Nealie, Nealia, Nilyah

Regional Subspecies:

Occurrence:

Habitat & Site Selection:

Mallee and woodland communities on sandy red earth and red earth. Well drained to heavy soil, in full or partial sun. Recommended for hot and dry areas. Drought and frost tolerant.

Habit:

Moderately dense, erect shrub to 3m high. Bark often shedding and pods curved or twisted. Has golden-yellow flowers from Jul-Oct.

Propagation:

From seed or cuttings. Seed should be scarified or heat treated prior to sowing.

VALUES:

Shade & Shelter:

Useful windbreak.

Land Protection:

Legume, improves soil fertility by fixing nitrogen.

First Nations:

Wood used for weapons.

Ornamental:

Attractive garden plant.