Description
Common names
Ploughshare Wattle, Dog"s Tooth Wattle, Ploughshare.
Scientific names
Acacia gunnii, Racosperma gunnii, Acacia vomiferous.
Family
Mimosaceae.
Genus
Acacia.
Name origin
Gunnii, after R.C. Gunn, early Tasmanian botanist.
Rainfall
500-900mm.
Growth height
1-2m.
Presence in Australia
Noted in various catchments and districts east of the Olympic Highway, from Albury district to Bringenbrong-Khancoban district.
This specie has been identified in the following Australian states: Qld, NSW, ACT, Vic, Tas, SA, WA.
Habitat
Sclerophyll communities on various soils.
Habit
Spreading or sprawling to erect shrub, 1-2m high, with hairy branchlets.
Site preference
Well-drained light to heavy soils, partial shade or full sun. Tolerates frost and dryness once established.
Flowering
Golden-yellow to almost white, usually Jul-Oct.
Seed collection
Late Nov to early Jan. Monitor closely as seeds released immediately or within 1-2 days of maturity.
Propagation
From scarified seed or cuttings. Pour boiling or very hot water over seeds and soak for several hours before sowing.
Regeneration
From seed, particularly after fire. Shortage of seed usually precludes establishment through direct seeding.
Shade and shelter
Useful low-level cover in windbreaks.
Land protection
Useful in controlling soil erosion due to soil-binding fibrous roots. Legume, improves soil fertility by "fixing" nitrogen.
Wildlife
Good habitat. Flowers are a nectar and pollen source for various native birds and insects.
Ornamental
Useful groundcover for rockeries.