Acacia paradoxa
kangaroo thorn
Overview
Acacia paradoxa is a dense, spiny evergreen shrub native to southeastern Australia, typically reaching 6-13 feet (2-4 m) tall and wide. Like most wattles, its mature foliage consists of flattened leaf stalks called phyllodes rather than true leaves; these are oblong to lance-shaped, 0.4-1 inch (10-25 mm) long, with wavy margins and a sharp rigid spine at the base of each. The interlocking spiny branches form an impenetrable thicket, the trait behind its common names kangaroo thorn and hedge wattle. In spring, golden-yellow globular flower heads about 0.3 inch (8 mm) across stud the branches singly in the phyllode axils. These are followed by hairy, curved seed pods 1-2.5 inches (3-6 cm) long. As a legume, the shrub fixes atmospheric nitrogen through root nodules and tolerates poor soils. It has naturalized as an invasive weed in California, South Africa, and parts of Europe, where its thorns and dense growth crowd out other vegetation.
Native Range
Native to southeastern Australia, occurring widely across South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales, and Tasmania in open forest, woodland, and scrub.Suggested Uses
Planted as a security or stock barrier hedge and for erosion control on poor soils in dry regions. Small birds shelter and nest within its thorny thicket. Its invasive spread and sharp spines limit use in small or public gardens.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height6' - 13'
Width/Spread6' - 13'
Bloom Information
Golden-yellow globular flower heads appear in spring, mainly August to November, scattered singly along the branches. Flowering lasts about four to six weeks. Curved, hairy seed pods follow through early summer and release hard seeds.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-10 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight