Womel facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Womel |
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|---|---|
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Acacia
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| Species: |
maranoensis
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| Occurrence data from AVH | |
The womel (scientific name: Acacia maranoensis) is a type of shrub or small tree. It belongs to the Acacia family, which is a large group of plants. This special tree is found only in a certain part of north-eastern Australia.
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What the Womel Tree Looks Like
The womel tree can grow up to about 10 meters (around 33 feet) tall. It has dark grey bark that is furrowed, meaning it has grooves or wrinkles.
Its branches are smooth and do not have hairs. They might look a bit dusty because of white resin on them. Like most Acacia species, the womel has phyllodes instead of true leaves. Phyllodes are flattened leaf stems that act like leaves.
These phyllodes are tough and grey-green. They are long and narrow, measuring about 9 to 20 centimeters (3.5 to 8 inches) in length. They are also about 4 to 12 millimeters (0.15 to 0.5 inches) wide. Many thin lines, called nerves, run along the phyllodes. One to three of these nerves are usually clearer than the others.
How the Womel Tree Was Named
The womel species was first officially described in 1978. A botanist named Leslie Pedley gave it its scientific name. This happened as part of his work on Acacia trees in Queensland.
For a short time in 1987, it was given a different scientific name, Racosperma maranoense. But in 2001, it was changed back to its original name, Acacia maranoensis.
Where the Womel Tree Grows
The womel tree grows in a small area in southern Queensland, Australia. You can find it around the towns of Roma and Mitchell. It also grows in the Maranoa Region, including near Morven. Some trees are found west of Kingaroy.
This plant often grows in flat areas or plains. These places can sometimes get flooded after heavy rain. The womel prefers dark brown, heavy clay soils. These soils can become quite boggy when wet. It often grows in woodlands alongside other trees like Eucalyptus populnea.
How People Use the Womel Tree
The womel tree can be used in several ways. It makes a good street tree or a shade tree because it grows quickly. It can also handle light frost and dry periods (drought).
This tree can grow in many different types of soil. It can grow in soils that are slightly acidic or slightly alkaline. It also does well in rich soils. The womel can survive in soils that are dry for a long time or in places that get flooded sometimes.
