Description
Common names
Box-leaf Wattle, Box-leaved Wattle, Box Leaf Wattle, Box-leaf, Boxleaf Wattle, Crescent Acacia, Hill Wattle.
Scientific names
Acacia buxifolia.
Family
Mimosaceae.
Genus
Acacia.
Name origin
Buxifolia, from buxus, the ancient Box Tree, and Latin folium, leaf, referring to the "leaf" similarity to those of Box Tree.
Rainfall
600mm.
Growth rate
Moderate.
Growth height
1-3m.
Presence in Australia
East of the Olympic Highway.
This specie has been identified in the following Australian states: Qld, NSW, ACT, Vic.
Habitat
Dry sclerophyll forest, woodland and heath. Often on rocky outcrops and slopes.
Habit
Erect or spreading shrub, 1-3m high, with thick blue-grey foliage.
Similar species
Distinguish from Western Golden Wattle (A. decora) by its generally glabrous inflorescence (flower structure) parts and different habitat.
Site preference
Well-drained soil. Tolerates frost and dryness.
Characteristics
Moderate growth rate. Variable habit.
Flowering
Golden-yellow, Jul-Nov.
Seed collection
Early Dec to mid Jan. Monitor closely as seeds released immediately or within 1-2 days of maturity.
Propagation
From scarified seed (±58 viable seeds per gram). Pour boiling or very hot water over seeds and soak for several hours before sowing. Also from cuttings.
Regeneration
From seed, particularly after fire.
Shade and shelter
Excellent low-level cover in windbreaks.
Land protection
Useful in controlling erosion due to is soil-binding fibrous roots. Legume, improves soil fertility by "fixing" nitrogen.
Wildlife
Good habitat. Flowers are a food source for native moths, butterflies and other insects. Insect-eating birds attracted. Native birds, including parrots and pigeons eat seed.
Ornamental
Attractive ornamental due to foliage and prolific flowers.