Mulga Tree

~ Acacia aneura ~

FABACEAE

This incredible plant is such a dominant and distinct feature of its landscape that it has generated terms such as ‘mulga country’ and ‘mulga lands’. Often called the Mulga Wattle, this tree sits under the Acacia genus, many of which live relatively short lives. The Mulga, however, has developed such a resourceful and impressive way of utilising every drop of precious water that it can reach the proud old age of 300 years. The Mulga also attracts local residents such as the Double-spotted Line Blue (Nacaduba biocellata) and the Icilius Blue (Jalmenus icilius) butterflies. Here it’s pictured flirting with its namesake the Mulga Parrot (Psephotus varius).

WHERE TO LOOK

These trees can be found in their own little communities, widely distributed throughout the arid outback of the mainland’s central states (excluding Victoria).

Locations → NSW: Mutawintji National Park and Living Desert State Park; WA: Kings Park and Botanic Garden; NT: Olive Pink Botanic Garden and Newhaven Wildlife Sanctuary.

FEATURES

Tree height is variable but most commonly you will find them as a 4–10m tree or shrub with a short trunk. The arrangement of the Mulga’s stems, stalks and branches has developed into a sophisticated system to channel into the stem every last drop of rainwater, which then flows directly to the tree’s deep taproot. Its evolved needle-like ‘leaves’ are called phyllodes (see White Wattle on p. 73 for more on phyllodes) and are 3–11cm long with tiny fine hairs giving an alluring silvery-grey appearance. The flowers are bright-yellow pops of colour on top of 1.5–2cm long spikes. The little edible dark-brown seeds are thin, flat pods growing 2–5cm long.

FLOWERING SEASON

Year-round → Flowering is up to the whim of the rains at any time of the year; however, you’re more likely to catch them between March to October, peaking in May.

TRADITIONAL USES

For the First Nations People of the Central Deserts, this tree has been a vital resource with edible gum and seeds and its impressive hardwood used in the making of digging sticks, woomeras, shields and wooden bowls.

PLANTING

Seeds are available online and in specialty nurseries. They appreciate a pre-treatment of boiling water and subsequent overnight soaking. If the seeds are swollen the next day, they’re ready to plant (ideally during spring or autumn) and germination should occur between ten and 21 days. The Mulga Tree needs a sandy soil for free drainage and flowers well in full sun.