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OUTSTANDING FEATURES: The attractive umbrella form and fragrant flowers have helped to make
Acacia farnesiana one of the most popular trees in the Southwest. Its adaptability to different environments
allows for its use in many locations.
DESCRIPTION: Acacia farnesiana is a small to medium sized evergreen or partly deciduous tree. It
will grow to 20 feet tall and develop a 20 foot canopy. Fragrant, golden yellow, puffball-like flowers appear
in late winter and through the spring. Flowers are followed by short, dark brown, woody pods. The
pods contain many seeds that sprout readily with extra moisture. These volunteers can become weedy in certain situations. The branches have 1 inch long white thorns that can be a nuisance when pruning. Also, this tree suckers readily at the base.
CULTURE/MAINTENANCE: This form is hardy to 10° F, though that temperature will kill flower
buds and cause some twig damage. Although it is quite drought tolerant, this tree will benefit from deep, thorough soakings during the summer. Its growth rate is moderate to fast, depending on the amount of water available. Place Acacia farnesiana in full sun and in a soil that has good drainage. As with other desert plants, it does not require a rich soil, but one without a caliche layer is best. Sweet Acacia does
require a good deal of maintenance. First, it tends to be multiple stemmed and shrub-like, and requires
substantial pruning to shape into a tree. Second, it produces an abundance of seed pods. Finally, the seed will germinate in areas with a rock or mulch covering and can become a nuisance.
LANDSCAPE APPLICATION: For best results, place it in full sun andreflected heat, allowing ample room for proper development. Acacia farnesiana can be grown as a large shrubby barrier, or pruned into a multitrunked tree. Although this tree is often grown and specified in a single-trunked form, a great deal of
maintenance is required to maintain this structure.
This tree tends to sucker profusely at the base, and
frequent pruning will be required to maintain a
standard form. Because of its prolific pod
production and thorny branches, Acacia farnesiana
should be used away from patios, pools, and high
traffic areas.
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