Acacia willardiana

Palo Blanco

OVERVIEW:

Acacia willardiana is a small to medium size deciduous tree with an upright habit that can grow 15-25 ft. tall and 10-15 ft. wide. Features tiny green compound leaves attached to 6-10 in. long narrow petioles and distinctive white peeling bark. Creamy-white flower spikes appear in late spring, occasionally throughout the year, and are followed by flattened seed pods 4-6 in. long. Plant in full sun with little to no water once established. Periodic deep watering in summer will help reduce drought stress and reduce the loss of leaves. Prune when young to establish a nice long-term structure. 

CLASSIFICATION:

Scientific Name: Acacia willardiana

Common Name: Palo Blanco

Family: Fabaceae (Leguminosae)

Suggested Uses: specimen accent, open entryways, or anywhere in desert gardens

CHARACTERISTICS:

Height: 15-20ft

Foliage: long green narrow petioles

Flower: white fluffy spikes

Bloom Period: Spring and summer

Fruit: Brown Legume

Bark: cream/white, exfoliating, smooth

ENVIRONMENT:

Sun: Full sun

Water: Little to no water once established

Soil: slightly acidic to very alkaline, clay, sand, porous, well-drained

USDA Zone: 9-11