THIS week, Hillcrest Conservancy, takes a look at the Pearl acacia, as part of its series of articles on alien invasive plants, to help the community to identify and eradicate them from their gardens.The Pearl acacia’s scientific name is Acacia podalyriifolia (Fabaceae) but is also known as the Vaalmimosa (Afrikaans).
Description: It is a small evergreen shrub or tree growing 3-6m high, with silvery-grey to dull green, oval, velvety leaves. New growth is covered in greyish, powdery layer and densely velvety hairs. The flowers are bright yellow and round, they appear in June to August. This has unfortunately become an attractive garden tree and does not look like an aggressive alien. The seed pods are greyish brown, velvety and are usually 30-80 mm long and 15-20mm wide.
Where does this species come from? Australia.
What is its invasive status in South Africa? This is a Category 1b invasive plant and therefore needs to be removed from your property to avoid prosecution.
How does it spread? It spreads through the dispersal of its prolific seeds.
Why is it a problem? Competes with and has the potential to replace indigenous species.
Does the plant have any uses? It is cultivated for shade and as a honey source.
Plant me instead alternatives: False olive (Buddleja saligna).
Contact Ian Pattrick on 079 909 5458 or Hillcrest Conservancy chairman, George Victor, on 073 901 3902 or e-mail georgevic@telkomsa.net
