In spring and summer, it often feels like you can’t go anywhere without seeing a wattle tree.
There are puffy yellow flowers everywhere, spreading sunshine and cheer (and pollen) as they burst into bloom. But that wattle you’re seeing is just one of almost a thousand wattle varieties in this country.
From the iconic golden wattle to the rare, pink Cupid’s wattle, these acacias cover a whole range of climates, colours, and conditions.
We can’t get into all 900-something Australian wattle tree varieties or we’d be here long enough for a tree to grow! So here are a selection of wattle varieties native to each state and territory.
ACT | NSW | NT | QLD | SA | TAS | VIC | WA
Shrub Varieties | Dwarf Varieties | Unusual Wattles
What to Know About Wattles
Wattles are evergreen acacias that are endemic to Australia – with hundreds of varieties. They’re most iconic for their round, puffy golden-yellow flowers that pop out in spring.
These Aussie native trees are some of the country’s most popular plants, and you can find them in many parks, sidewalks, and even coastlines!
Wattle trees don’t have true leaves – instead, they’re called phyllodes. These are flat, modified leaf stems that take in sunlight and hold water, allowing wattles to be more water-efficient.
That makes wattles perfect for low-maintenance or water-wise gardens.
Is a Wattle Tree a Weed in Australia?
Wattles can be considered environmental weeds or invasive species outside of their native habitats.
Different states and territories have their own native varieties of wattle – Cootamundras are found in NSW, for example, while fringed wattles are in QLD.
However, due to their fast-growing and spreading natures, wattles (or acacias) can quickly overtake local wildlife when introduced outside their native range.
Birds and other pollinators carry seeds into ecosystems, where the trees take over. Many become problems in waterways and bushland.
Some popular varieties such as Cootamundras and Golden wattles are highly invasive outside their native ranges.
If you’re planning to grow a wattle tree in your garden, it’s best to choose a local variety!
Check your local state and council regulations regarding wattles before picking a plant. You can also talk to a professional gardener in your area – they’ll know which varieties will suit your garden.
Wattle Varieties in the Australian Capital Territory
There aren’t too many acacia species noted as indigenous to the ACT – most acacias found there are “established naturalised,” meaning they came from other areas and spread out.
However, the ACT still has some stunning native acacias, including perhaps the most iconic wattle of them all.
Golden wattle (Acacia pycnantha)
This is Australia’s national floral emblem and the most “emblematic” of wattles. Golden wattles can be found along Canberra’s “wattle walks.”
The golden wattle tree has masses of golden-yellow flowers that emerge from late winter into spring. It can adapt to most well-draining soils and is very drought-tolerant.
Acacia pycnantha is one of many species of edible wattles – the seeds can be ground into flour. Meanwhile, its bark is used for dyeing leather and the flowers are used in perfumes.
Ovens wattle (Acacia pravissima)
Ovens wattles make great ornamental trees since they can often grow in unusual shapes, from arching branches to weeping stems.
Acacia pravissima can grow in climates from cool temperate to semi-arid, so long as there’s well-draining soil. It’s also one of several native trees that can tolerate slightly alkaline conditions.
There’s even a cultivar called ‘Golden Carpet’ that works as ground cover or a low screen! It also thrives in mixed garden beds and borders.
NOTE: A. pravissima is only naturally occurring in the western ranges of the ACT. Avoid growing it near any bush areas.
Red-stemmed wattle (Acacia rubida)
You’ll likely find this tree listed as endemic to NSW and QLD, but red-stemmed wattles are also classed as indigenous by the ACT’s Census of Plants!
Red-stemmed wattles have reddish-brown branches, with bright yellow flowers emerging between July and November.
These trees are very drought-hardy and low-maintenance, and can grow in cold conditions as well. They have a bushy or spreading habit and can get as tall as 10m.
Wattle Varieties in New South Wales
NSW is home to many wattles across the state, from the coastal areas to inland regions.
However, some have gotten a bit too popular in gardens outside of their natural ranges, with many becoming “weedy wattles” in other states.
Cootamundra wattle (Acacia baileyana)
First off – the Cootamundra wattle is now an environmental weed in many areas outside its native range. It spreads very quickly and can hybridise with other wattles, threatening endemic wattle species.
Acacia baileyana is endemic to the Western Slopes region of NSW, and you should avoid growing it outside of that area.
Cootamundra wattles are known for their blue-green foliage with a whitish, waxy bloom. The phyllode “leaves” look feathery, providing a backdrop for the round, golden-yellow flowers.
Sydney golden wattle (Acacia longifolia)
You’ll find this native tree in many places in and around Sydney – hence the name!
This small tree is best known for its paler yellow flowers that are tube-shaped, unlike the globular heads of other wattles.
One caveat, though: outside of its native habitats, the Sydney golden wattle is highly invasive. Some areas in SA and WA even have weed control programs for this tree.
Acacia longifolia is a fast-growing tree that can reach a mature height of 8m but can be maintained as a hedge or shrub. It flowers from June to October, and can tolerate poor soils so long as there’s drainage.
Wyalong wattle (Acacia cardiophylla)
These wattles are found in NSW’s more central and southern areas, in their preferred climates. You’ve probably seen them in the wild or as a feature shrub in someone’s garden
A. cardiophylla is one of the smaller wattles, typically reaching a maximum height of 3-4m. The golden-yellow flowers appear between August and November.
Wyalong wattles are frost-hardy and able to tolerate low temperatures. They look particularly attractive when grouped together to form a thick hedge for privacy or a border.
Wattle Varieties in the Northern Territory
There are several acacia varieties endemic to the Northern Territory, across all its climate zones!
Many of them have edible parts, such as seeds or bark.
Elephant Ear wattle (Acacia dunnii)
These wattles take their name from their distinctive foliage – unlike other wattles, which have narrow, pointed phyllodes, the Elephant Ear’s leaves look like… well, elephant’s ears!
The leaves are large and often form to “cradle” the clusters of bright yellow flowers. That makes the Elephant Ear (or Dunn’s wattle) a very attractive statement tree.
Regular pruning can keep it to a more compact height of about 1.5m, perfect for an open shrub. A. dunnii can tolerate both frost and drought, so long as there’s full sun and well-drained soil.
Silky wattle (Acacia holosericea)
This small, open shrub grows to a height of 3-4m, so it’s a great choice for hedging or screens.
Silky wattle is a highly versatile plant – the seeds are edible, whether roasted or ground into flour. The bark has medicinal properties when soaked. The hard, dense wood is good for timber.
Even the seed pods and leaves are usable, as you can use them to make bush soap! That gives A. holosericea its other nickname, soap bush.
Witchetty bush (Acacia kempeana)
This wattle bush or shrub is shaped like an upside-down umbrella, with branches curving outwards. That helps the shrub collect water to store during times of drought.
Witchetty bush (or Wanderrie wattle) leaves are a slightly duller green and it has smaller bunches of flowers. The plant is also home to Witchetty grubs, which are actually edible
A. kempeana prefers arid climates, so it’s usually found in central areas of Australia.
Wattle Varieties in Queensland
QLD is home to several wattle varieties across its various climates.
Many of them will be able to tolerate humidity as they grow in Queensland’s subtropical regions.
Fringed wattle (Acacia fimbriata)
Say hello to the floral emblem of Brisbane, Queensland! The fringed wattle is also known as the Brisbane wattle, and they’re common along the QLD coast.
This tree gets its name from the fringe appearance of its thin, narrow leaves. A. fimbriata can tolerate some cold and humidity – it’s more important to have well-draining soil.
Fringed wattles can grow to a height of about 6m, but regular pruning will keep them compact as a screen plant. Expect loads of fluffy, butter-yellow flowers from July to November.
Mudgee wattle (Acacia spectabilis)
Acacia spectabilis makes quite a spectacle wherever it’s planted, thanks to its fern-like foliage and golden-yellow flowers.
Also called Glory wattle, you may have seen those sunshiney globular heads around southern QLD from September to October
A. spectabilis is also identifiable by the silvery-grey colouring on its trunk, which wears off with age.
Mudgee wattle grows best in temperate climates, and can tolerate a wide range of soils. Depending on the cultivar and maintenance, it can reach between 2-6m.
Queensland silver wattle (Acacia podalyriifolia)
This native QLD wattle takes its name from the distinctive silvery-grey foliage, but it still sports the wattle’s golden-yellow flower clusters.
It’s fast-growing and often used as a hedge or screen plant. The flowers can start appearing in late winter, but this tree is usually in full bloom during spring.
This wattle likes full sun and can tolerate drought, as well as many soil types. It typically grows to between 2-6m.
NOTE: Avoid growing this variety if you live near bushland, as it spreads quickly. It’s also considered invasive outside of its native habitat – WA, for example, considers it a “serious threat.”
Wattle Varieties in South Australia
From the driest areas of South Australia to the regions with higher rainfall, you’ll likely find an acacia tree.
Many of them are a showy signal that spring is starting!
Barrier Range wattle (Acacia beckleri)
The Barrier Range acacia isn’t very common in gardens, but if you can find it, it’s worth growing! The long leaves and large yellow blooms give it a distinct yet attractive appearance.
Unlike other wattle varieties that flower in winter, A. beckleri can start blooming in early autumn. Since it only reaches 2m high, it fits well in small spaces – though don’t plant it near sewer pipes.
Barrier range wattles can tolerate a wide range of soil types and pH levels, so long as they get plenty of sunlight.
Gold Dust wattle (Acacia acinacea)
Also called wreath wattle, A. acinacea is most common in the southernmost areas of South Australia.
The ‘Gold Dust’ nickname comes from the iconic fluffy golden flowers – which also scatter lots of “dust” or pollen. (Sorry to anyone with hay fever.)
This small shrub blooms in late winter and is moderately cold-tolerant, down to -7ºC. Gold Dust wattle grows in many soil types and is one of the longer-lived varieties – often over 15 years.
Graceful wattle (Acacia gracilifolia)
Add a touch of class and grace with the Graceful wattle! A. gracilifolia is a small wattle tree – typically reaching a max height of just 2m.
In the wild, its range is slightly limited, mostly found in the southern Flinders Ranges and northern Mount Lofty Ranges.
The branches drape slightly and feature long, slender leaves, hence the “grace” in its name. It can tolerate mildly alkaline soils and is frost-resistant.
Wattle Varieties in Tasmania
Tasmania is well-known for its lavender, but it has its share of wattle varieties too!
However, the local species have limited ranges in pockets across the state.
Black wattle (Acacia mearnsii)
Black wattle has an important role in Tasmanian ecosystems! For example, the rare Tasmanian hairstreak butterfly lays its eggs in the crevices of the gnarled bark.
The expansive root system attracts fungi that produce food for local wildlife. Moreover, birds love to gather and eat the insects attracted by the sweet sap or gum.
You’ll recognise a black wattle by its dark, olive-green leaves and rough bark. In winter to spring, it has small, cream-coloured sprays of flowers.
Coast wattle (Acacia sophorae)
As the name suggests, the Coast wattle grows around coastal areas – not just in Tassie, but also in SA and QLD.
It’s a dense, spreading shrub that typically doesn’t flower as profusely as other varieties. In the wild, A. sophorae grows in sand dunes, but it can survive even in heavy soils as it likes moist conditions.
The long, drooping flower spikes are a creamier colour and appear in spring. Moreover, A. sophorae is a useful windbreak plant since it’s native to windy shorelines.
Silver wattle (Acacia dealbata)
Often confused with the Cootamundra, the silver wattle (or mimosa tree!) is characterised by the silvery colour on the undersides of the leaves.
It’s one of the hardiest acacia varieties, tolerating many soil types and climates. A. dealbata in the wild is a tall tree, reaching up to 30m high, but garden cultivars may only reach 10m.
This variety needs little maintenance so long as it gets sunlight and well-draining soil. Still, you can prune it after flowering to encourage bushier growth.
Wattle Varieties in Victoria
Victoria is home to some of the rarer wattle varieties, including the highly sought-after A. howittii.
But there’s an acacia for everyone, even near the coast!
Hickory wattle (Acacia implexa)
This tree is locally known as Lightwood and is common in the Geelong region. Lightwoods are longer-lived than other wattles, often with a lifespan of decades.
However, they’re not recommended for small gardens as they can “sucker” when the roots are disturbed or damaged. “Suckering” means the tree puts out small growths around the base, leading the plant to spread further out.
Unlike other varieties, the Hickory wattle flowers a bit late – from spring into summer. Lightwood is hardy and can tolerate most conditions, but is prone to gall forming from wasps.
Snowy River wattle (Acacia boormanii)
The Snowy River wattle is a stunning tree when it’s in full bloom, with masses of golden-yellow flowers taking over the tree.
Since the foliage is more sparse, the small, rounded shrub almost looks like you’ve got a small sun in your garden!
As its name suggests, this acacia is native to the Snowy River region. It can tolerate cold temperatures down to -8ºC but doesn’t do well with humidity.
Sticky wattle (Acacia howittii)
You may have a hard time finding Acacia howittii in the wild. This is a rare species since its natural habitat is restricted to the southern Gippsland hills – just a 20km stretch!
However, it’s been widely cultivated for homes due to its hardy, quick-growing nature. Gardeners are advised to avoid growing it near bushland as it can quickly “escape” and spread through the ecosystem.
The nickname comes from the slight stickiness of the leaves, which are dark green when mature.
A. howitttii flowers don’t cluster as much as other acacia varieties, but their pale colour makes them very attractive.
Wattle Varieties in Western Australia
Western Australia sees a lot of coastal and arid wattles, with some species that occur only in the state.
Many are even sources of bush food.
Common Mulga (Acacia aneura)
Fun fact: Mulgas are Australia’s most common tree! You’ll encounter them in the wild, in national parks, and even along sidewalks in cities.
Acacia aneura has a long flowering period, with blooms appearing between March and October. You’re most likely to catch the bright yellow floral show after some rain.
Mulga is an essential bush food – the seeds are edible, and Aboriginal People have been known to grind the roasted seeds into a paste. The gum can also be eaten, while the roots are home to witchetty grubs.
Myrtle wattle (Acacia myrtifolia)
This is another coastal wattle, naturally appearing in areas like Albany and the Great Southern region. It’s also found in the coastal areas of SA, VIC, and NSW.
A. myrtifolia isn’t as common in cultivation since its flowers are less brightly-coloured, but it’s great for low-maintenance native gardens and barriers.
When not in season, the red stems provide year-round aesthetic value (similar to ACT’s A. rubida).
It can grow in part shade and most soils, but should be planted away from sewer pipes.
Western Myall (Acacia papyrocarpa)
The Western Myall tree naturally grows in arid regions, often around limestone rises and salt flats. It’s a tall, spreading tree that looks very imperious out in the wild.
A. papyrocarpa is better known for its dense, hair-like foliage than its flowers. There’s even a weeping variety called the water myall that looks like it comes straight out of a storybook.
Western Myalls typically reach a height of 2-8m and can tolerate temperatures down to -7ºC.
Shrub Wattle Varieties
Many wattles grow as trees between 6-10m tall, but there are smaller shrub varieties that reach 2-4m at most.
These can be pruned to keep a compact, manageable shape in a garden.
Box-leaf wattle (Acacia buxifolia)
This wattle bush reaches a max height of 4m, so it’s perfect for small gardens. It occurs naturally in several states.
As ornamental plants, box-leaf wattles look best when grown together to maximise their visual impact. Their erect habit and large flower clusters make them a great focal point!
A. buxifolia thrives most in sunny spots with well-draining soil. Like other acacias, they require minimal watering when mature and can subsist on rainfall.
Native Areas: QLD, NSW, ACT, and VIC
Drummond’s wattle (Acacia drummondii)
In the wild, Drummond’s wattle is an undershrub – meaning it grows low and close to the ground. It’s often found in the shelter of taller shrubs, trees, and rocks.
A. drummondii isn’t commonly cultivated, but when planted at home, it makes an excellent ground cover! The shrubs rarely reach more than 2m high and do not need much pruning.
The bright yellow flowers have a similar shape to another Aussie native flower, the bottlebrush. Drummond’s shrubs bloom sporadically before reaching their most lush in October.
Native Area: Western Australia
Yellowdine wattle (Acacia rossei)
This is one of the showier wattles, with dense bunches of bright gold flowers reaching up towards the sky.
Yellowdines are “sparingly branched,” which helps emphasise those yellow clusters at the branch ends. The globular heads stick out in a circle, resembling a burst of fireworks.
The shrub’s max height is typically 3m, but you can prune it to be smaller and bushier. That can also encourage more profuse flowering throughout the season.
Native Area: Western Australia
Dwarf Wattle Trees
If you want to go even smaller, there are dwarf wattle varieties that are perfect for small garden beds or pots. These aren’t found in the wild, but rather cultivated from specific wattle species.
There are several dwarf cultivars of wattles – mainly taken from Acacia cognata (River wattle). Just make sure you get a pot in the right size with good drainage holes.
Acacia ‘Limelight’
This is one of the most popular dwarf wattles, well-known for its lime-green foliage that makes it stand out!
Since acacias are evergreen, you’ll have those bright leaves year-round, so ‘Limelight’ is perfect as a potted feature plant. You can also grow it in a balcony container so it cascades down and adds visual impact.
Give your ‘Limelight’ well-draining potting mix and plenty of sun. It’s not a prolific bloomer, though, and has a short lifespan of about 5-10 years.
Acacia ‘Mini Cog’
‘Mini Cog’ is yet another compact, “weeping” dwarf cultivar with rich, emerald foliage. The fine, thin leaves give it a soft and fluffy appearance (not recommended to lie down on, though).
Like other dwarf A. cognata varieties, the small blooms are a secondary feature, though they can appear in spring.
‘Mini Cog’ is prone to root rot in humid conditions, so grow it indoors if you live in a tropical or subtropical climate. Give it plenty of sun and free-draining potting mix.
Acacia ‘Fettuccini’
The ‘Fettucini’ dwarf wattle is popular for its rippling leaves that look like very short fettuccini noodles. The foliage is light green and quite dense, with small flowers in spring.
This dwarf variety looks best when grouped with other plants in a tub or container.
‘Fettuccini’ is very drought-resistant, though it’s not too fond of humid climates. Give it well-draining potting mix and bright light.
Unusual Types of Wattle Trees in Australia
Yellow-flowering wattles are the most common in urban and wild settings, but you might see some other varieties with different colours out in the wild!
Here are some more unusual or rare types of native acacia in Australia.
Acacia ‘Scarlet Blaze’ (Acacia leprosa)
This red wattle tree is a cultivar of the Cinnamon wattle, and was once the floral emblem of Victoria. Instead of puffy yellow flowers, this tree has bright red blooms!
Besides the unusual colour, Scarlet Blaze (like other Cinnamon wattles) leaves release a cinnamon-like scent when crushed.
In cultivation, Scarlet Blaze wattles prefer acidic, well-drained soils and temperate climates. The stunning flowers of this small wattle tree make it perfect for showing off a front lawn.
Blue wattle (Acacia meisneri)
There aren’t any wattles with blue flowers – instead, the Blue wattle is best known for its foliage. It’s endemic to the south-west areas of WA.
Acacia meisneri flowers sporadically, so it’s grown more for its blue-green leaves. In gardens, it’s best for rounded shrubs or dense hedges.
Blue wattles can grow in most soils, from loamy to rocky. They’re not as drought-tolerant as other wattles, but can tolerate slightly salty conditions.
Cupid’s wattle (Acacia purpureopetala)
Is there a pink wattle tree? Yes – but not for your garden. Cupid’s wattle (or Purple wattle tree) is a critically endangered variety, found only in limited areas of northeastern QLD.
This small shrub is easily recognised by its fluffy pink or mauve flowers, often emerging around Mother’s Day. A. purpureopetala also has dense foliage and sprawling branches.
(Try saying purpureopetala three times really fast.)
Cupid’s wattles grow on rocky slopes, sometimes in the company of eucalyptus trees.
Flax wattle (Acacia linifolia)
If you want to set your garden apart, go for the flax wattle! This white wattle tree features stunning flowers in a white or cream colour.
Flax wattles are primarily found in NSW – you can even see them around Sydney. In the wild, they grow in sandy soils or around sandstone and shale.
Acacia linifolia makes a great hedge or screen, and will only need light pruning. It tolerates partial shade and light frost, and likes moist but well-draining soil.
FAQs About Wattle Trees in Australia
Interested in more info about Australian wattle tree varieties? Here are some common questions and concerns!
How many varieties of wattle are there in Australia?
It’s estimated that out of over 1,300 varieties across the world, almost 1,000 wattle varieties can be found in Australia.
In fact, wattles are the largest genus of flowering plants in the country.
What is the difference between black wattle and silver wattle?
These two varieties can be hard to tell apart, but there are differences! Silver wattle (Acacia dealbata) has silver-green foliage and blooms earlier – sometimes starting in winter.
On the other hand, black wattle has no silver on its foliage. Instead, it has darker branches that are brown to blackish, and blooms from spring to summer.
What is the difference between Cootamundra wattle and silver wattle?
These can be difficult to tell apart, which becomes a problem if you’re trying to get rid of Cootamundras in your area.
Acacia baileyana can easily hybridise with local silver wattles or out-compete young trees, making it a threat to local plant populations.
There are two key signs: the leaves and the height. Silver wattles tend to be taller (up to 10m), while Cootamundras typically only reach 6m.
Cootamundras have shorter leaf pairs (pinnae) and fewer of them per branch – less than 8 leaflets – whereas silver wattles have 10 or more.
What types of wattles are fast-growing?
Most species of wattle are fast-growing – about 0.5-1.0m of growth per year.
Some species such as the Golden wattle and Ovens wattle can reach their full, mature height in just 5 years.
However, wattles have shorter lifespans than other trees, typically living only 7-12 years before quickly declining. Some varieties can live up to 15-20 years in cultivation.
What are common problems for wattles?
Certain wattle species are prone to wattle tick scale. The scale looks like hard, white bumps clustered on branches.
Other common issues with wattles include stem borers, bag-shelter moths, and galls.
