Tree: Silver Wattle (Acacia dealbata)

A large, spreading tree of up to 20 metres that is indigenous to the Kinglake area and suitable for most conditions. Fast growing with a life span of 30 - 50 years, it flowers from July to November and attracts a variety of animals & insects. Note that Silver Wattles have a strong spreading root system and should not be planted near septic or sewer connections.

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Image credits: Image 1 - John Stewart KLG | Image 2 - Chris Cobern KLG | Image 3 - Roger Cook KLG

Information

	Features Large, spreading tree up to 20 metres Indigenous to Kinglake area Fast growing with a life span of 30 – 50 years Suitable for most conditions Flowers July – November Silvery green/grey foliage
	Habitat Attracts a variety of animals. Flowers: nectar and pollen is food for insects, birds and sugar gliders. Seeds: food for seed-eating birds (parrots, pigeons). Leaves: eaten by caterpillars and insects (stick insects, some beetles) Gum: high energy food for possums Galls provide food for rosellas and cockatoos. Insects pupate under the bark –a favourite food for black cockatoos and gang gangs. Habitat for small birds to perch and nest (silvereyes)
	Uses Aboriginal use: Stone axe handles with the gum used to fasten head to handle. Also boomerangs. Gum was dissolved in water with nectar to make sweet drink Other uses: Adds nitrogen to the soil that benefits other plants, soil bacteria and fungi (mycorrhizal network). Root system helps with soil stabilization. Fast burning fuel but poor compared to other hardwoods. The gum is soluble in water and was reputedly dissolved in boiling milk and used for dysentery and diarrhea by European settlers.
	Propagation Regenerates naturally from seed after a disturbance such as fire. Seed germinates easily after treating with boiling water and soaking overnight.
	Notes Caution: Silver Wattles have a strong spreading root system and should not be planted near septic or sewer connections

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