Sweet Acacia (Acacia farnesiana)

Sweet Acacia
Scientific Name: Acacia farnesiana (L.) Willd.
Synonym: Vachellia densiflora, Acacia minuta ssp. densiflora, Acacia smallii
Family: Fabaceae

Show Larger Picture Recommended Temperature Zone:
sunset: 8,9,11-24
USDA: 8b-10

Frost Tolerance: Hardy to 10°F (-12°C), loses its flowers at 15°F (-10°C), might sprout back from the roots if severely frozen.
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Origin: South of the USA (California to Florida), northwestern Mexico, below 5000 feet elevation (1500 m)
Growth Habits: Deciduous tree or large shrub, up to 30 feet tall (9 m), 15 feet spread (4.5 m)
Watering Needs: Little water when established, tolerates poor drainage
Propagation: Seeds, self sows

The Sweet Acacia generates a fairly large quantity of litter. It also suckers readily and needs periodical trimming. The branches have spines in pair that exceed 1 inch long (2.5 cm).

As Acacia smallii at the Glendale Xeriscape Garden

Blooming Habits:
Acacia farnesiana has masses of scented yellow balls in spring.

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