Family:
Fabaceae
Acacia rigens
Needle Wattle
Other Names: Needlebush Acacia, Nealie, Nealia, Nilyah
Regional Subspecies:
n/a
Habit:
Moderately dense, erect shrub to 3m high. Bark often shedding, pods curved or twisted. Golden-yellow flowers (Jul-Oct).
Habitat & Site Preference:
Mallee and woodland communities on sandy red earth and red earth. Well-drained to heavy soil, full or partial sun. Recommended for hot, dry areas. Drought and frost tolerant. Prefers 250 – 500 mm rainfall in the Riverina.
Seed Collection & Propagation:
Collect seed Dec-Jan. Propagate from scarified or heat-treated seed or cuttings.
Values & Uses:
Windbreak. Nitrogen-fixing legume, improves soil fertility. Wood used for weapons by First Nations People. Attractive garden plant.