Acacia howittii is an elegant large shrub or small tree that is highly prized for its beautiful pendulous branches. Native to a small area in Victoria, it has become popular across Australia as an ornamental plant due to its soft, refined appearance. The foliage consists of tiny, oval-shaped phyllodes that give the plant a very fine, delicate texture. As the name suggests, the new growth and leaves have a slightly resinous or sticky feel.
In spring, this wattle is transformed by a mass of soft, lemon-yellow globular flowers that appear in the leaf axils. The fragrance is subtle but pleasant, and the blooms are very attractive to native birdlife and beneficial insects. Because of its incredibly dense growth, it is one of the best native plants for screening out noise, wind, or prying eyes. It can be easily maintained as a thick, formal hedge or left to grow into its natural, romantic weeping form.
Care Tips
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Position: Thrives in full sun or part shade. It is quite adaptable to different light levels, though more sun generally leads to a more profuse flowering display.
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Climate: Best suited to temperate and cool temperate climates. It is frost-hardy and can withstand moderate wind once established.
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Soil: Prefers well-drained soil but is quite adaptable to a variety of soil types, including clay-based soils, as long as they do not remain waterlogged for long periods.
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Watering: Medium water requirements. It likes consistent moisture while establishing but is reasonably drought-tolerant once mature. It prefers not to dry out completely during the height of summer.
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Fertilising: Use a low-phosphorus fertiliser formulated for Australian natives in late winter or early spring before the flowering season begins.
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Pruning: Very responsive to pruning. It is an excellent candidate for topiary or formal hedging. Regular trimming after flowering will help maintain a tight, bushy shape and prevent the plant from becoming woody.
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Maintenance: Generally a very hardy and long-lived wattle compared to some other short-lived species.
