Acacia baileyana, commonly known as Cootamundra wattle or golden mimosa, is a species of shrub or small tree native to southeastern Australia. Here's a description of this plant:
Appearance:
Acacia baileyana typically grows as a small tree or large shrub, reaching heights of 3 to 10 meters (10 to 33 feet) tall.
The foliage consists of finely divided, fern-like leaves that are bluish-green or gray-green in color.
The leaves are bipinnate, meaning they are divided into pairs of leaflets arranged along a central stalk.
Flowers:
It produces showy, fragrant flower clusters in late winter to early spring.
The flowers are bright yellow and spherical, resembling fluffy pom-poms.
These flower clusters are borne in terminal racemes and provide a striking display of color when in bloom.
Fruit:
After flowering, Acacia baileyana develops small, flattened seed pods that contain the seeds.
The pods are typically brown and may remain on the plant for some time before splitting open to release the seeds.
Habitat:
This species is native to southeastern Australia, including regions of New South Wales and Victoria.
It is often found in open woodlands, forests, grasslands, and disturbed areas such as roadsides and abandoned fields.
Cultural Uses:
Acacia baileyana is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant for its attractive foliage and flowers.
It is often planted in gardens, parks, and landscapes for its ornamental value and ability to attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.