Coiled Wattle
acacia spirorbis
Also known as: ["Coiled Wattle","Spiral Wattle"]
Overview
A small, spreading shrub native to Australia, known for its distinctive coiled phyllodes and yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Acacia |
| Botanical Name: | Acacia spirorbis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sunny, sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogged roots.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with good organic matter content; a mix of cactus/succulent soil with added perlite or coarse sand works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done as needed throughout the year; major pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to rejuvenate growth while preserving the plant
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, indirect sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but should be protected from harsh afternoon rays.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching; place in a location with filtered light or dappled shade, especially in hot climates; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light patterns.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate the plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid placing near west-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid letting the plant sit in water, and adjust frequency based on season and environmental conditions.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, ideally between 6.0–7.0.
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test soil pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C); can tolerate brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in consistently warm conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust frequency based on plant growth.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method; softwood cuttings taken in spring or early summer root most effectively.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting with several leaf nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing and has sufficient energy for root development.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C) and high humidity (70–80%).
Medium
A well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or a cactus/succulent potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates and speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots typically develop within 4–8 weeks; the plant may take several months to establish fully.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation medium, plastic bag or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Keep the medium consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide gentle bottom heat if possible; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools to make angled cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or inward-growing branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased branches; focus on structural improvement and aesthetic balance.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for thicker stems), sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools before and after use; prune during dormancy or early growth phase; remove dead or damaged wood first; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, just before the plant's active growth period begins, to minimize stress.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger in diameter (e.g., +2–3 inches) to allow for root expansion without excessive soil volume.
Method
Remove the plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; this encourages fresh soil and root growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water well after repotting; place in a shaded area for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the foliage; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost or peat moss to enhance fertility and moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or leaf drop in cold stress; scorching, brown leaf tips, or stunted growth in hot stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf drop; prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C) may lead to plant decline.
Solution: Move the plant to a warmer location; provide a heat source if necessary; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, dehydration, and wilting; may also lead to reduced flowering or bud drop.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; ensure adequate watering to combat dehydration.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to the toxic compounds in Acacia spirorbis, especially the seeds and bark. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal distress and potential systemic toxicity, requiring prompt veterinary intervention.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Acacia spirorbis seeds and bark can lead to significant gastrointestinal upset and potential toxicity due to the presence of lectins and other harmful compounds. These substances can disrupt normal digestive processes and cause systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAcacia spirorbis contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in humans. The seeds and bark are the primary toxic parts, containing lectins and other bioactive compounds that may interfere with digestion and cause irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Acacia spirorbis suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is best suited for outdoor landscaping in suitable climates.
Q: Does Acacia spirorbis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its flowers.
Q: How drought-tolerant is Acacia spirorbis?
A: It is moderately drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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