Common names

Miljee, Umbrella Wattle (Vic), Nelia (Qld), Umbrella Bush, Bean Bush, Boree, Cooba, Curly Yarran, Karagata, Middia, Midget Tree, Milgee, Miljea, Nelia, Nelia Tree, Ram"s Horn Tree, Umbrella Acacia, Umbrella Wattle, Whacka, Whyacka.

Scientific names

Acacia oswaldii.

Family

Mimosaceae.

Genus

Acacia.

Name origin

Oswaldii, after F. Oswald, 19th century collector for F. von Mueller.

Rainfall

200mm.

Growth rate

Moderate.

Growth height

2-6m.

Presence in Australia

Noted in Brookong catchment. Becomes widespread to the west of the region.

This specie has been identified in the following Australian states: Qld, NSW, ACT, Vic, SA, NT, WA.

Habitat

Widespread in various habitats and vegetation communities, including open eucalypt forest or among other acacias.

Habit

Densely branched erect or spreading shrub or small tree, 2-6m high. Finely fissured dark grey bark and angled or flattened branchlets. Sharp-tipped "leaves" and large woody twisted pods.

Similar species

Distinguish from Boree (A. pendula) by "leaves". Miljee "leaves" are sharp-tipped.

Site preference

Heavy to moderately-drained soil. Partial or full sun. Tolerates drought and frost.

Characteristics

Moderate growth rate. Lifespan beyond several decades. Often appears umbrella-shaped due to regular trimming by livestock.

Flowering

Golden-yellow or pale-yellow, Oct-Dec.

Seed collection

Dec to late Feb. Monitor closely as seeds released immediately or within 1-2 days of maturity. Abundant seeder every few years.

Propagation

From scarified seed (±6 viable seeds per gram).

Regeneration

From seed. Birds disperse seeds around vegetated areas.

Shade and shelter

Useful low-level cover in windbreaks.

Land protection

Legume - improves soil fertility by "fixing" nitrogen.

Fuel

Very good.

Timber

Timber heavy, close-grained, durable and disagreeably-scented. Not commonly used, although reputedly suitable for cabinet work.

Wildlife

Prickly dense foliage good cover for birds.

Koori

Clubs and other weapons made from timber. Seeds ground to edible paste.

Ornamental

Ornamental value.

Other

Subsistence fodder. Pods eaten by sheep.