Acacia decurrens dealbata (Silver Acacia, Silver Wattle)

Acacia decurrens dealbata (Silver Acacia, Silver Wattle) is a fast-growing evergreen tree belonging to the family Fabaceae (Leguminosae) and is native to southeastern Australia. It features silver-gray foliage, fragrant yellow flowers, and is valued for its ornamental qualities in landscaping and gardens.

The Silver Wattle is a medium-sized tree that can reach heights of up to 10 to 20 meters (33 to 66 feet) at maturity. It has an upright and spreading growth habit with a rounded or dome-shaped canopy. The bark is typically smooth and grayish-brown in color.

The foliage of the Silver Wattle is one of its distinctive features. The leaves are bipinnate, meaning they are divided into numerous small leaflets. The leaflets are silvery-gray or bluish-green in color, giving the tree a silvery appearance. This is where its common name "Silver Wattle" originates. The leaves also have a fern-like or feathery texture.

During late winter or early spring, the Silver Wattle produces abundant clusters of bright yellow, ball-shaped flowers. The flowers are highly fragrant and attract bees and other pollinators. The flowers are followed by elongated seed pods that contain small seeds.

The Silver Wattle is adaptable to various soil types and can tolerate both sandy and clay soils. It prefers well-drained soil and thrives in full sun to partial shade. This tree is drought-tolerant once established and can withstand periods of dry conditions.

The Silver Wattle is often cultivated for its ornamental value. It is popular in gardens and landscaping due to its attractive silver foliage and vibrant yellow flowers. It can also be used as a windbreak or for erosion control in some regions.