Maitland's wattle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Maitland's wattle |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Acacia
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| Species: |
maitlandii
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| Occurrence data from AVH | |
| Synonyms | |
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Acacia maitlandi F.Muell. ex Benth. |
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The Maitland's wattle, also known as Acacia maitlandii, is a special type of wattle plant. It is a perennial shrub that grows naturally in Australia. This plant is known for its bright yellow flowers and interesting seed pods.
Contents
What Does Maitland's Wattle Look Like?
Maitland's wattle is a shrub that can grow from about 0.7 to 3 meters (2 to 10 feet) tall. It has an open, somewhat thin shape. Its branches are smooth and have a sticky feel.
Leaves and Flowers
The leaves of this wattle are not typical leaves. They are called phyllodes. These phyllodes are smooth and shaped like narrow ovals. They are about 0.8 to 2.5 cm (0.3 to 1 inch) long and 1 to 3 mm (0.04 to 0.12 inches) wide.
The plant produces bright yellow flowers. These flowers usually appear between May and October. They grow in round clusters, like small balls. Each flower head is about 4 to 5 mm (0.16 to 0.20 inches) across. Each head can have 35 to 60 tiny flowers!
Seed Pods
After the flowers bloom, smooth, papery seed pods start to grow. These pods are straight and are a bit squeezed between each seed. They are about 4 to 5 cm (1.6 to 2 inches) long and 3 to 4 mm (0.12 to 0.16 inches) wide.
How Was Maitland's Wattle Named?
The Maitland's wattle was first officially described in 1862. This was done by a famous botanist named Ferdinand von Mueller. He wrote about it in his work called Fragmenta Phytographiae Australiae.
The plant is named after Maitland Brown. He was an early European explorer in northwest Australia. He collected the very first sample of this plant. For a while, it was called Racosperma maitlandii. But in 2001, it was moved back to the Acacia group.
Where Does Maitland's Wattle Grow?
You can find Acacia maitlandii in the northern parts of most Australian states. It grows in New South Wales, the Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, and Western Australia. It does not grow in Victoria.
This wattle prefers to grow in red sand or stony ground. It is often found on sandy or rocky plains and on hills. Scientists do not think this plant is in danger of disappearing.
Uses of Maitland's Wattle
Maitland's wattle has been used by Indigenous Australian people for a long time.
- The wood from this plant is used to make tools. These tools include boomerangs and spearthrowers.
- The plant also produces a gum. This gum can be eaten.
- The Yindjibarndi and Ngarluma people call this tree Garrga.
The seeds of Maitland's wattle have been studied as a traditional Australian food. They are known to be very high in fats.
