Golden Wattle (Acacia pycnantha)

Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Acacia pycnantha is an evergreen Tree growing to 8 m (26ft 3in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower from March to May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It cannot grow in the shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Rich in pollen, they are often used in fritters. — Flowers - cooked.; Rich in pollen, they are often used in fritters.; The plant yields an oily gum which is said to be edible.; Some species produce a gum that is dark and is liable to be astringent and distasteful, but others produce a light gum and this is sweet and pleasant.

Habitat & North American Range

Thickets, or as an under-storey in Eucalyptus forests, especially on very poor soils. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)