A fast-growing Australian acacia with long, gray-green leaves on gently drooping branches, giving a lush, willow-like look on desert water. It is thornless and evergreen and makes shade quickly, but it needs good structure and lean watering to stand up to monsoon winds.
Living with it in the Phoenix Valley
Watering
Follow the tree schedule in our Landscape Care guide while it establishes. After that it needs only occasional deep water. Less frequent watering builds stronger wood, while heavy watering pushes soft, top-heavy growth. Water away from the trunk to spread the roots and lower the risk of the tree blowing over.
Pruning
Train young trees to strong, well-spaced branches and remove limbs with narrow, tight crotches, which tend to split. Thin the crown now and then so wind passes through. Avoid heavy summer cuts that expose bark to sunburn.
Wind
Poorly trained or overwatered trees are prone to monsoon damage, and even well-trained trees can drop limbs. Good structure, lean watering and regular thinning are the best defense.
How our designers use it
Quick shade
It is one of the faster ways to get real shade on a west-facing wall or patio.
A lush look on little water
Our designers use it where a homeowner wants the soft, flowing look of a willow without the water a true willow needs.
Screening
Its upright form works along property lines to soften walls and block views.
Good to know
Around the pool
Expect some leaves, flowers and seed pods. The wind risk is another reason we keep it from leaning over pools, patios or the house.
Suckers and seedlings
In irrigated yards it can send up root suckers and seedlings. Remove them while they are small.
