🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Nitrogen fixer, used in agroforestry and soil stabilization. Tannin source for leather production. Firewood and charcoal. Flowers are attractive to pollinators. Can be used as a windbreak or living fence. The gum is edible but not particularly palatable. The bark has medicinal properties and is used traditionally for treating wounds and ailments.
Permapeople description
A fast-growing tree native to Australia, used for tannin production and erosion control.
Botanical description
Acacia mearnsii is a fast-growing leguminous tree native to southeastern Australia. It typically reaches heights of 10-20 meters. The bark is dark brown to black and deeply fissured. Leaves are bipinnate, dark green, and feathery. Flowers are small, globular, and creamy-white, arranged in dense spikes. Fruits are flattened pods containing several dark brown seeds. The tree possesses symbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacteria in its root nodules.
Companion planting
Generally beneficial for nitrogen-demanding plants due to its nitrogen-fixing abilities. May compete with other plants for resources in areas where it becomes invasive. Avoid planting near sensitive ecosystems or areas prone to fire due to its flammability and potential for rapid spread.
Propagation methods
Seed (scarification recommended), cuttings (semi-hardwood), root suckers.
History and traditions
Historically, indigenous Australians used the bark and gum for medicinal purposes. Introduced to other parts of the world for tannin production and erosion control. It has become an invasive species in some regions due to its rapid growth and prolific seed production. Used commercially for tannin extraction for the leather industry. The wood is used for pulp and paper production and as a fuel source.
Usage calendar
Flowering: August-October (Australia); Seed maturation: November-January (Australia); Planting: Spring or Autumn; Pruning: After flowering.