Acacia iteaphylla
willow leaf wattle
Dense shrub or small tree, fragrant, pale yellow blooms late fall to early spring. Adaptable to most soil conditions. Good in some shade, and excellent in a pot.
 Height | 10–14ft |
|---|---|
 Width | 6–12ft |
 Tolerates | Drought, Pots, Wind |
 Water needs | Low |
For the first three years after it's planted, this acacia should be watered deeply but infrequently (when the top three inches of soil or so have dried). After that, it will survive without supplemental water except in exceptionally hot and dry environments. Use drippers, emitters or a slow stream of water so that it doesn't run off; allow the water to trickle all the way down through the deepest layers of soil. Though these trees are drought tolerant, never let them go bone dry in a pot. | |
 Hardy to | 15°F |
 Exposure | Part Sun – Full Sun |
 Plant traits | Flowering, Hedge, Screen, Shrub, Weeping |
 Indoor / outdoor | Outdoor |
 Drainage | In Ground: Cactus Mix, In Pots: Cactus Mix, Tolerates Sandy Soil |
 Fertilizing | All Purpose |
 Origin | S Australia |
 California native | No |
 Sunset zones | 8, 9, 12–24 |
Growing Notes
Acacia are FAST growers - this plant will reach full size in under five years making it a great choice for privacy needs in your garden. Acacia are also relatively short lived, typically growing for twenty to thirty years.
Since this acacia is naturally on the small side it's an excellent choice for pots, which will dwarf it further.
In some shade, acacia look softer and the purple-silver colors of this one will come out more.
This shrub is forgiving of pruning. Choose to prune off lower branches for a standard tree form, or tip prune to create a dense shrub or screen. Typically wide acacia can be pruned into a narrower form.
Special Interest
Let's dispel some rumors. All acacia are not invasive. Some can be quite problematic, but this one is not. Also, acacia allergies are not common. Many people who believe they are allergic to acacia are actually allergic to conifers, which produce pollen at the same time of year.
The above information reflects the observations of Grubb and Nadler and our extended plant community. We always consider input from fellow horticulturists and welcome feedback from those with additional information on the culture of this plant.
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