Wattle – Square Canvas Print

This large genus is easy to recognise by its ‘wattle’ bloom, which varies in shape from spherical to tubular. But when not in flower, it can be hard to recognise because it differs considerably from sub-shrubs to canopy trees. In many lower rainfall regions they are the absolute dominant trees and shrubs.

One lineage, comprising of over 900 species, is mainly native to Australia, has spread right across the continent and is present in all terrestrial habitats. Some form an important part of the ‘fire cycle’; regenerating quickly when the country has been burnt, the canopy opened and thus provide protection for the soil. Others like the desert mulga (Acacia aneura), are highly fire retardant.

A not closely related lineage exists in Africa.

Aboriginal Australians have traditionally harvested the seeds of some species to be ground into flour and eaten as a paste or baked into a cake. The seeds contain as much as 25% more protein than common cereals, and they store well for long periods due to the hard seed coats. In addition to utilising the edible seed and gum, the people employed the timber for implements, weapons, fuel and musical instruments.

It is obviously an important habitat and food source for birds and insects.

Helen Ansell Fine Art Canvas Prints – also available as a Square Paper Print.