Flowers - cooked[144]. Rich in pollen, they are often used in fritters[144]. The bark exudes an edible gum[183]. Some species produce a gum that is dark and is liable to be astringent and distasteful, but others produce a light gum and this is sweet and pleasant. It can be sucked like candy or soaked in water to make a jelly[193]. The gum can be warmed when it becomes soft and chewable[193]. Seed - cooked. It is dried, ground into a flour and used with cereals in making cakes etc[177, 183]. Acacia seeds are highly nutritious and contain approx 26% protein, 26% available carbohydrate, 32% fibre and 9% fat[278]. The fat content is higher than most legumes with the aril providing the bulk of fatty acids present[278]. These fatty acids are largely unsaturated which is a distinct health advantage although it presents storage problems as such fats readily oxidise[278]. The mean total carbohydrate content of 55.8 + 13.7% is lower than that of lentils, but higher than that of soybeans while the mean fibre content of 32.3 + 14.3% is higher than that of other legumes such as lentils with a level of 11.7%[278]. The energy content is high in all species tested, averaging 1480+270 kJ per 100g[278]. Wattle seeds are low glycaemic index foods. The starch is digested and absorbed very slowly, producing a small, but sustained rise in blood glucose and so delaying the onset of exhaustion in prolonged exercise[278]. A sweet red or white 'lerp' that forms on the leaves and branches is eaten[183]. Lerp is a protective shield secreted from the anus of sap-sucking insects[193]. The taste is sweet and it was used as a staple food by the Aborigines in some areas of Australia[193]. It is not clear if the lerp is eaten when the insects are still present or if it can be eaten after they have gone[K]. A large succulent gall, known as 'mulga apple' is produced by the tree and is said to quench the thirst[183].

Plants For A Future can not take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of plants. Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant medicinally.


None known

A yellow dye is obtained from the flowers[168]. A green dye is obtained from the seed pods[168]. The extensive root system of this plant helps to prevent soil erosion[200]. The twigs are used to make a dishmop[156]. Wood - turns well, takes a high polish. It is used extensively for ornaments and fencing[156, 157, 167].

Special Uses