Acacia genistifolia

Acacia genistifolia

Spreading Wattle

Fast-growing, open shrub with ribbed yellow tips on new growth.

Additional information

  • FamilyFabaceae
  • StoreyMiddle storey
  • Size1-3 m x 1-3 m
  • Plant groupingShrubs 1.5-10 m
  • LeavesNarrow prickly foliage 10-40 mm x 1-3 mm with central raised vein on either side, fine point on tip asymmetrical. Gland 2-4 mm above base.
  • Flower colourLight to lemon yellow
  • Flowering timeFebruary to October
  • FlowersScented ball-shaped flowerheads on slender stalks in groups of 2-4 per leaf axil, long flowering. Narrow, almost straight pods 5-11 cm x 4-7 mm, raised over seeds.
  • Bird attractingSeeds, insects
  • Butterfly attractingNo
  • Frog habitatNo
  • Growing conditionsWill tolerate both wet and dry periods in clay or sandy soil in open forests. Frost tolerant. Full sun, semi or dappled shade.
  • Garden useGrows under established trees. Bird refuge, attracts seed-eating birds such as parrots.
  • Commercially availableAustralian plant & indigenous nurseries
  • Conservation statusLocally common within its preferred growing conditions
Photographer/s: 1, 3 Marilyn Bull ©; 2, 4 Healesville Sanctuary ©

Plant Communities

  • 46 Silvertop Ash Heathy Dry Forest (EVC 20)
  • 17 Messmate Herb-rich Foothill Forest (EVC 23)
  • 42 Yellow Box Valley Grassy Forest - Christmas Hills (EVC 47)
  • 22 Silver-leaf Stringybark Heathy Woodland (EVC 48)
  • 28 Red Box Grassy Dry Forest - Christmas Hills (EVC 22)
  • 19 Long-leaf Box Herb-rich Foothill Forest (EVC 23)
  • 01 Alpine Ash Montane Damp Forest (EVC 38)
  • 18 Messmate Shrubby Foothill Forest - Dandenongs (EVC 45)
  • 20 Messmate Lowland Forest (EVC 16)
  • 21 Broad-leaf Peppermint Heathy Dry Forest (EVC 20)
  • 38 Yellow Box Valley Grassy Forest – Middle Yarra (EVC 47)
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