Leatherleaf Acacia

Plant Type: Plants & Trees
Plant Height: 10-15 feet
Spread: 10-15 feet
Flower Color: 
Sun Exposure: Full Sun

Description:

The Leatherleaf Acacia, scientifically known as Acacia craspedocarpa, is a distinctive and attractive small tree or large shrub native to Western Australia. It is valued for its unique foliage, drought tolerance, and ornamental appeal in landscapes.

In cultivation, Leatherleaf Acacia typically grows to about 10 to 15 feet in both height and spread, forming a rounded, open canopy. One of the most striking features of this Acacia is its foliage; the leaves are not true leaves but rather phyllodes – modified leaf stems that serve the function of leaves. These phyllodes are silver-gray to blue-green, narrow, and have a leathery texture, giving the plant its common name.

The Leatherleaf Acacia blooms in late winter to early spring, producing small, yellow, puffball-like flowers that are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators. These flowers can add a splash of color to the landscape and contrast beautifully with the plant's silvery foliage.

This Acacia species thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining soil. It is highly drought-tolerant once established, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and water-wise gardens. The Leatherleaf Acacia is also relatively low maintenance, requiring minimal pruning to maintain its shape and size.

In landscaping, Leatherleaf Acacia is often used as a specimen plant, in mixed shrub borders, or in native and drought-tolerant gardens. Its unique foliage color and texture, combined with its flowering habit, make it a valuable plant for adding visual interest and diversity to the garden.

Overall, the Leatherleaf Acacia is a versatile and attractive plant, ideal for adding beauty and drought tolerance to landscapes. Its adaptability to various growing conditions and minimal care requirements make it a popular choice among gardeners in arid and semi-arid regions.

Three Timbers Installation Guide (Feel Free to Follow): Leatherleaf Acacia

Planting Guide:

• Location: Full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth)
• Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil (slightly acidic to neutral soil preferred)
• Spacing: Space plants 6-8 feet apart for optimal growth and air circulation
• Planting Depth: Plant at the same depth as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil surface
• Support: Leatherleaf Acacia requires no staking and grows into a small tree or shrub with fine foliage and a rounded shape

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water thoroughly immediately after planting to saturate the root ball and surrounding soil
• Frequency: Water every 4-5 days for the first 2-3 weeks to help establish the root system
• Watering Amount: Provide 2-3 inches of water per session for deep watering

When is the Plant Established?

• Timeframe: Leatherleaf Acacia is considered established after 4-6 months when the roots have spread into the surrounding soil

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Water every 10-14 days during the hotter months. If temperatures exceed 100°F, increase watering to every 7-10 days. Provide 3-4 inches of water per session.
• Winter: Water every 4-6 weeks during the cooler months, depending on rainfall.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

• Placement of Emitters: Place the drip emitters 18-24 inches away from the base of the plant for deep watering of the root zone
• Flow Rate: Use emitters with a flow rate of 2-4 gallons per hour
• Number of Emitters: 2-3 emitters per plant for even watering distribution
• Adjusting Frequency: In summer, increase watering frequency to every 7-10 days. In winter, reduce to every 4-6 weeks