Also known as Australian Blackwood · Australian Ysterhout · Black Acacia
Blackwood (Acacia melanoxylon) is a fast-growing tree native to Australia, valued for its dark, durable timber and ornamental appeal.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry between waterings once established.
Loam, Sandy, Clay, Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 15-25°C. Can tolerate cooler conditions but protect from frost.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring with a balanced slow-release formula.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly during the first year to establish a deep root system. Once established, Acacia melanoxylon is drought-tolerant. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Reduce watering in winter.
Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Prune to shape the tree and remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Light pruning can be done anytime, but heavier pruning is best done in late spring or early summer after flowering.
Remove suckers that emerge from the base of the trunk.
Seeds can be propagated by scarifying them (nicking the seed coat) and soaking in hot water overnight before sowing in well-draining seed-raising mix. Cuttings can also be taken from semi-hardwood in summer and treated with rooting hormone.
Young trees may need repotting every 1-2 years to refresh the soil and provide more space for root growth. Use a well-draining potting mix. Repot in spring before new growth begins.
Mature trees rarely need repotting and are best planted in their final position.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Blackwood (Acacia melanoxylon)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Acacia |
| Species | Acacia melanoxylon |
Similar in genus Acacia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
