Family: Fabaceae
Acacia longifolia is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to coastal and lowland areas of eastern Australia, including New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia. It typically grows in sandy soils, clay, or rocky areas, often along creeks and swamps. Fast-growing and nitrogen-fixing, it has been widely cultivated for erosion control, ornamental use, and as a substrate for oyster mushrooms. The species produces bright yellow flowers in late summer to early autumn and forms hard, long-lived seeds that germinate readily under favorable conditions.
Although valued for its soil stabilization and ornamental qualities, A. longifolia has become naturalized in several regions outside its native range, including California, New Zealand, South Africa, and parts of South America. In some areas, particularly South Africa, it has become invasive, displacing native vegetation and forming dense stands after fire or disturbance. Seeds are dispersed by water, birds, and human activities, and the species regenerates rapidly after pruning or fire. Control is challenging but may involve targeted herbicide use or biological agents in some regions.
High Risk Traits:
- Environmental weed in multiple countries
- Naturalized beyond its native range
- Fast growth and nitrogen-fixing
- Long-lived seed bank, water- and animal-dispersed seeds
- Rapid regeneration after fire, pruning, or disturbance
Low Risk Traits:
- Not spiny, allelopathic, or parasitic
- Palatable to livestock; non-toxic to animals and humans
- Prefers full sun; not shade-tolerant
- Does not form dense thickets naturally
