Shoestring Acacia

Plant Type: evergreen tree
Plant Height: 20–30 feet
Spread: 15–20 feet
Flower Color: pale yellow
Sun Exposure: Full sun

Shoestring Acacia (Acacia stenophylla): Narrow, Graceful Form for Water-Wise Shade

Shoestring Acacia is a fast-growing, evergreen tree from Australia known for its long, narrow, ribbon-like leaves and airy canopy. With its upright form and soft, weeping habit, it provides filtered shade while fitting into narrower spaces, making it a popular choice for Arizona landscapes.

Key Features of Shoestring Acacia

• Unique Foliage: Long, narrow leaves (phyllodes) resemble ribbons or “shoestrings,” creating a graceful weeping look.
• Filtered Shade: Provides dappled light under its airy canopy, making it ideal near patios or lawns.
• Fast Growth: Establishes quickly, reaching 20–30 feet tall with a moderate spread.
• Drought & Heat Tolerant: Thrives in desert conditions with minimal water once established.
• Low Litter: Clean, low-maintenance tree compared to many desert species.

Growing and Care Tips

Shoestring Acacia is durable, low-maintenance, and well-suited for desert-friendly landscapes.

Soil: Prefers well-draining sandy or rocky soils; avoid poorly drained clay.
Water: Moderate during establishment; once mature, water deeply every 3–4 weeks in summer.
Fertilizer: Not usually required; a light feeding in spring may encourage growth.
Pruning: Minimal pruning needed—remove lower branches for clearance or to encourage single-trunk form.

Landscaping Uses

• Shade Tree: Provides light, filtered shade for patios, lawns, and desert gardens.
• Narrow Spaces: Ideal for parkways, courtyards, or smaller yards where space is limited.
• Accent Tree: Elegant, weeping foliage makes it an attractive specimen.
• Low-Water Gardens: Perfect for xeriscapes and desert-style landscapes.

Summary

Shoestring Acacia is a graceful, fast-growing shade tree that thrives in hot, dry climates. With its slender, ribbon-like foliage, low litter, and drought tolerance, it’s a stylish and functional choice for Arizona gardens.

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

Planting Guide:

Location: Full sun for best growth and canopy development.
Soil: Well-draining sandy or rocky soil.
Spacing: Space 15–20 feet apart for full canopy spread.
Planting Depth: Keep crown level with surrounding soil.
Support: Young trees may need staking for the first 1–2 years.

Watering Guide:

Watering After Planting:

• Initial Watering: Water deeply after planting.
• Frequency: Every 5–7 days for the first 2–3 months.
• Watering Amount: Enough to soak 12–18 inches deep.

When is the Plant Established?

• Typically after 6–12 months of consistent watering and vigorous new growth.

Watering Once Established:

• Summer: Deep water every 3–4 weeks.
• Winter: Water every 6–8 weeks if dry.

Drip Irrigation Setup:

Placement of Emitters: Position 2–3 emitters evenly spaced around the dripline.
Flow Rate: 2 gallons per hour.
Number of Emitters: Two for young trees; three to four for mature specimens.
Adjusting Frequency: Increase in peak summer heat or during drought; reduce in winter.

General Watering Tips for Shoestring Acacia:

• Soil Check: Allow top 4–6 inches of soil to dry between waterings.
• Avoid Overwatering: Too much water can cause weak growth and root issues.
• Mulch: Apply a light gravel mulch to conserve moisture and reduce weeds while keeping it away from the trunk base.