Prostrate Wattle

acacia redolens

Also known as: ["Low Wattle","Creeping Wattle"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Acacia Category: Shrubs

Overview

A low-growing, spreading shrub native to Australia, valued for its ground-covering habit and yellow flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["drought tolerant","ground cover","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Acacia
Botanical Name: Acacia redolens

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–40°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to remove dead or overgrown branches.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates intense summer sun but benefits from some afternoon shade in extreme heat.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually over 1–2 weeks. Protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates. Ensure proper placement to avoid sunburn or etiolation.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor drainage or incorrect soil conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Full sun is essential; provide shade in extreme heat; rotate plant for even growth.

Watering

every 7–14 days in summer, every 3–4 weeks in winter

Water thoroughly until runoff; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid frequent shallow watering.

Soil

well-draining, sandy or loamy soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter if needed.

Temperature

Thrives in warm climates (65–90°F or 18–32°C). Tolerates mild frosts but prefers temperatures above 50°F (10°C).

Protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat; maintain consistent warmth for best growth.

Fertilizing

every 3–4 months during active growth

Fertilize once a year in spring; use a balanced formula; avoid over-fertilization.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (70–80°F or 21–27°C), humid, and bright but indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.

Hormone

Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establish in new pot after 3–6 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use fresh cuttings; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; keep warm and bright.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Selective thinning and heading back to shape the plant and improve air circulation.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, remove dead wood, and encourage bushier growth. Prune after flowering or in late winter/early spring.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead or diseased wood; shape as desired; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Move to a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter).

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot only when root-bound or every 2–3 years. Acacia redolens prefers being slightly root-bound.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; trim roots if needed; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply slowly to allow absorption and prevent runoff. Ensure excess water drains away to avoid waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once every 7–10 days during summer; reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop; risk of root damage in prolonged freezing.

Solution: Protect from frost with mulch or frost cloth; avoid overwatering in cold; move potted plants indoors if temperatures drop below 20°F (-7°C).

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced growth due to excessive heat and dry conditions.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Choose balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water after fertilizing; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply sparingly, as Acacia redolens is not heavy feeder. Avoid fertilizing in late fall or winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Acacia redolens may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Acacia redolens can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to impaired nutrient uptake and potential plant death.

Leaf spots on Acacia redolens may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root rot, can occur in Acacia redolens if the soil is poorly drained or excessively moist, leading to decay of root tissues and eventual plant decline.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest Acacia redolens seeds or bark. The toxicity is generally low, but caution is advised to prevent any adverse effects.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea loss of appetite
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds bark
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep cats away from the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected or symptoms appear.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Acacia redolens seeds and bark can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed in significant quantities.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds bark
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent dogs from chewing or ingesting parts of the plant. Contact a veterinarian if symptoms occur.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Acacia redolens contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested. The seeds and bark are the primary toxic parts, containing substances that may irritate the digestive tract.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds bark
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds and bark. Keep out of reach of children.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Acacia redolens suitable for rock gardens?

A: Yes, its prostrate growth habit makes it ideal for rock gardens and slopes.

Q: Does Acacia redolens require frequent watering?

A: No, it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil with minimal watering once established.

Q: Are the seeds of Acacia redolens edible?

A: No, the seeds are mildly toxic and should not be consumed.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–14 days in summer, e
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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