A tall, narrow Australian acacia with long, string-like leaves that hang straight down from dark, rough-barked branches. Its upright form fits spaces where most shade trees would be too wide, and it is thornless, tough and easy on water.
Living with it in the Phoenix Valley
Watering
Follow the tree schedule in our Landscape Care guide while it establishes. It is drought tolerant once mature, but it looks best with occasional deep soaks rather than rainfall alone. Spread water out from the trunk so roots reach wide, which helps the tree stay anchored in wind.
Pruning
Little is needed beyond removing dead wood and low growth that gets in the way. Avoid taking more than about a quarter of the canopy in summer; exposed bark can sunburn, and sunburned wood draws borers.
Pests
Generally trouble-free. Aphids, thrips or spider mites can show up, mostly in dry, dusty conditions.
How our designers use it
Narrow spaces
Its columnar shape suits side yards, narrow beds and spots near tall walls where a spreading tree would crowd the house.
Vertical screening
Planted in a row or a loose group, it softens walls and blocks views without a heavy, solid look.
Light shade for planting beds
The open, weeping canopy casts filtered shade, so shrubs and flowering plants beneath it still grow and bloom normally.
Good to know
Around the pool
Litter is light compared with most acacias, which makes it one of the easier trees to place near a pool or patio. Expect some leaves, flowers and small pods in season.
Root suckers
If roots are cut or exposed, for example by trenching, it can send up suckers. Remove them early so the tree keeps a clean form.
