Sim’s Wattle / Heathland Wattle
Origin of name
Family: MIMOSACEAE
- Acacia meaning “a point“
- simsii in honour of John Sims.
Occurrence
In open woodlands, foothills & coastal plains in NT & Qld (Cape York to ~Mackay). Locally, grows in sand & gravel in eucalypt open forest and woodland. Often along roadsides.
Tolerates a range of drained soils, especially sand. Needs full sun & no flooding. Does best in groups of 3-4 shrubs.
Appearance
A shrub/small tree (1-4m) with narrow, lime-green leaves and showy, bright yellow, globular flower heads (Jan-Mar). Seed pods are raised over seeds, alternately on each
side.
Prolific, perfumed flowers. Attracts insects that, in turn attract birds (e.g. Rainbow Bee-eater). Seeds are bush tucker. Used in screening, windbreaks & erosion control.
