Fabaceae

acinacea — curved, sword-like, possibly referring to coiled legumes or seed-bearing fruit.

n/a

Small spreading shrub, 30 cm to 2 m high, arching branches, angled/ flattened branchlets, hairy ‘leaves.’ Golden-yellow flowers, Aug-Oct, profuse. Fast-growing, lifespan may be several decades.

Woodland, various soils, mainly sand. Prefers well-drained soil in full or partial sun. Tolerates frost and drought, dislikes poor drainage. Prefers 350 – 500 mm rainfall in the Riverina.

Collect early Dec-mid Feb, seeds released quickly after maturity. Often low seed production. Propagate from scarified seed (±113 viable/ gram), soak in boiling water before sowing. Also propagates from cuttings. Regenerates from seed and suckers after fire. Does not establish easily from direct seeding.

Low-level windbreak cover. Improves soil fertility (legume). Good habitat, flowers provide nectar and pollen for insects, seeds eaten by birds and ants. Attractive for hedges, screens, rock gardens, under trees, and tubs. Self-seeds in gardens.