Acacia mucronata Willd. ex H.L.Wendl.

Scientific Name

Acacia mucronata Willd. ex H.L.Wendl.

Description

Subspecies Classification

This species is divided into three subspecies: subsp. mucronata, subsp. dependens, and subsp. longifolia. Both subsp. mucronata and subsp. dependens are apparently endemic to Tasmania.

Subsp. longifolia Distinguishing Features

Acacia mucronata subsp. longifolia can be distinguished from the other two subspecies by its phyllodes, which are usually more than 9 cm long (rarely less than 10 times as long as wide) and typically acute. This pointed characteristic is reflected in the species' specific epithet mucronata, which means 'mucronate, pointed'.

Morphological Variation

Acacia mucronata is a polymorphic species that shows a great deal of morphological variation.

Flower Characteristics

The flowers of A. mucronata are arranged in loose spikes 1–6 cm long, which grow solitary or in pairs, and are creamy white or pale yellow. The rachis is visible between individual flowers.

Flowering Period

This species flowers in spring, typically from August to December.