Australian National Botanic Gardens

Acacia holosericea

Description: Spreading shrub to 3 m by 4 m with large, obovate, very glaucous phyllodes. Bears yellow rod-shaped flowers. Masses of twisted pods are a feature of the plant even after the seed has fallen.

Children of the Mt Isa area are reported to refer to the twisted pods as 'soap', as they are sticky and tend to remove dirt from the skin when crushed in the hands.

Distribution: Qld., NT, WA (northern areas).

Propagation: From scarified seed or boiling water treatment.

Cultivation: Generally adaptable in cultivation, responds to sunny, reasonably well drained positions in most soils. Spectacular foliage plant for mild areas. Prune regularly to maintain rounded shape. Grows very quickly.

Special horticultural attributes:

Recommended for its foliage.
May be used as a feature plant.
Suitable hedge or screen plant.
Has attractive fruit.
Suitable for planting in tropical areas.