Family:
Fabaceae
Acacia brachybotrya
Grey Wattle
Other Names: Grey Mulga
Regional Subspecies:
Similar Species:
May be confused with Box-leaf Wattle (A. buxifolia). Distinguish by different habitats and ‘leaves’.
Occurrence:
Regional:
Widespread in the western and north-western areas on lighter soils. Mainly west of the Olympic Highway.
Australia:
NSW, Vic, SA.
Habitat:
Mainly in mallee. Common on red earths.
Habit:
Erect or spreading grey to grey-green shrub, 1-4 m high, with downy branches.
Site Preference:
Relatively well-drained soil.
Characteristics:
Moderate growth rate.
Flowering:
Golden-yellow, Jul-Sept. Abundant.
Seed Collection:
Mid Nov to late Jan. Monitor closely as seeds released immediately or 1-2 days after maturity.
Propagation:
From scarified seed.
Regeneration:
From seed or stem after fire.
VALUES:
Shade & Shelter:
Useful low-level cover in windbreaks.
Land Protection:
Useful for stabilising sandy country near watercourses. Legume — improves soil fertility by ‘fixing’ nitrogen.
Wildlife:
Good dense understorey for bird cover. Seeds eaten by various native birds.
Ornamental:
Decorative ornamental for gardens.
