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Broadleaf Evergreen

Wattle Bonsai

Acacia species

fine-leaved or phyllode-bearing tree with bright yellow flowers and rugged trunks

Moderate to ChallengingOutdoor in mild frost-free conditions or cool bright protection in the UK
Wattle Bonsai

Overview

Wattle Bonsai (Acacia species) is a fine-leaved or phyllode-bearing tree with bright yellow flowers and rugged trunks. It is best suited to Australian-style bonsai, literati, informal upright and flowering displays. For UK growers, treat it as: Outdoor in mild frost-free conditions or cool bright protection in the UK.

Placement

full sun and excellent airflow

Watering

water thoroughly then let the surface begin to dry; avoid stale wet soil

Feeding and fertilising

feed lightly; many acacias dislike overly rich, heavy feeding

Pruning and wiring

prune after flowering or active flushes; avoid cutting back to totally bare old wood unless species is known to bud

Repotting

repot cautiously every 2-3 years in spring

Propagation

seed after scarification or cuttings for some species

Pests, diseases and common issues

root disturbance, dieback after hard pruning, scale and weak growth in shade

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