Acacia smallii

Sweet Acacia

OVERVIEW:

Acacia smallii commonly known as Sweet Acacia, grows 15 to 25 feet tall with a rounded, spreading canopy. This semievergreen, native shrub or small tree has green feathery leaflets that grow from slightly rough stems possessing short, sharp, thorns. Blooming period spans winter to early spring and brings small fragrant golden-yellow puffball clusters. Grow sweet acacia in full sun with infrequent, yet periodic deep watering to develop a healthy root system. This is done by watering along the edge of the canopy and not at the base of the trunk. Freeze damage may occur in severe winters. Pruning is required when young for tree shape. Propagation is done by seed or cuttings.

CLASSIFICATION:

Scientific Name: Acacia smallii

Common Name: Sweet Acacia

Family: Leguminosae

Suggested Uses: Shade tree, individual accent tree, buffer strips around parking lots

CHARACTERISTICS:

Height: 15-20 ft

Foliage: Tiny green feathery leaflets

Flower: Yellow puffballs, fragrant 

Bloom Period: Winter - spring

Fruit: A brown seed pod, usually over 3" long, containing edible seeds

Bark: Gray-brown, rough

 ENVIRONMENT:

Sun: Full sun, part shade

Water: Infrequent deep watering

Soil: Well-draining sand, neutral to moderately alkaline soils

USDA Zone: 8b-11