Acacia
decurrens: is known as a Black Wattle. Acacia decurrens is a
tall shrub or small tree with bipinnate foliage. The common name is rather
confusing because there are many tall Wattles with bipinnate foliage that have
been given this name. There are at least 20 species with this common name
native to New South Wales alone.
The botanical differences between species include the position of glands on
the leaf stems and the number of leaflets on each branch. Some Black Wattles
flower outside of the usual spring period.
Horticulturally most Black Wattles (including Acacia decurrens)
are similar and may be cultivated as components of windbreaks and
shelterbelts.
The ridge that runs along each branch may be used to identify Acacia
decurrens. The dark green foliage contrasts with the bright yellow spring
flowers.
Acacia decurrens bark was used in the tanning industry. Plantations
were established along the Australian east coast to service the tanning
industry. Plantations were also established in South Africa. The Australian
industry collapsed due to cheaper labour costs in South Africa.
Acacia decurrens is native to the Coast and Tablelands of New South
Wales. The species has become naturalized in Queensland, Victoria and
Tasmania. This is a legacy of the defunct tanning industry.
Acacia decurrens is also cultivated overseas as a shelter plant and for
firewood. The species is also grown as a glasshouse plant in Europe.
Propagate from seed.