Knife-leaf wattle
It has become a popular ornamental plant due to its distinctive foliage and beautiful yellow flowers.
Most acacia species have pinnate leaves, as for example the karoo acacia in the Desert House.
The leaves of the knife-leaf wattle look completely different, however. What looks like leaves on the knife-leaf wattle are in fact the leafstalks or petioles, which are flat and have taken over the function of the leaves. They do not sit horizontally, contrary to leaves here in Europe, but vertically, and this position protects them from Australia's strong sunlight.
The beautiful and very special foliage of the knife-leaf wattle and its bright yellow flowers are the reason why it has become a popular ornamental plant that is now also naturalized in both New Zealand, Asia, Africa, North and South America.
Fact box:
- Greenhouse location: Mediterranean house
- Danish name: Knivblads-acacie
- Latin name: Acacia cultriformis
- Family: Pea family / Fabaceae
- Natural habitat: Australia