Wattles, such as the Drummond wattle, add a brilliant splash of colour to the garden in spring.By Kath Gannaway
THE question for Bob and Dot O’Neill is not “what’ll they think of next” but what wattle will they think of next?
Close to 1000 different wattles grow in Australia and the O’Neill’s grow about 100 of them at Katandra Gardens in Wandin North.
The display is magnificent, especially at this time of the year when most species are in flower and the taller black and silver wattles provide a spectacular backdrop to low-growing and shrub species.
With careful selection, wattles make excellent garden plants.
“We have wattles flowering here 12 months of the year, in shades of cream through to lemon, yellow and gold,” Bob said as he pointed out the elongated flowers of the Drummond Wattle.
The Drummond (A.drummondii), the Snowy River (A.boormanii) and gold dust wattle (A.acinacea), are among his favourite shrub varieties.
Where a low-growing plant is called for, Bob suggests grass-leafed wattle (A.Willdenowiana) or the A.Browniana, and for shade or privacy, Australia’s floral emblem, the golden wattle (A.pycnantha), or the ovens wattle (A.Provisimia).
Their main requirements are plenty of sun, space to grow and protection from strong winds.
Drought tolerant, most not only survive, but can thrive in even harsh conditions.
Acacia are a good source of pollen which attract bees, and seeds are a valuable food source for certain birds.
A stroll through the wattle gardens at Katandra is a useful first step for anyone thinking of adding a wattle or two to their garden.
All the wattles are named, so a note book and a camera, will help identify the plants you want when it comes time to buy.
If you can go back at different times of the year you will be able to see what is flowering at that time?
Katandra Gardens, at 49 Hunter Road, Wandin North, will be open as part of the Australian Open Garden Scheme on 14 and 15 October.
