The tree that we present to you today is the acacia bayleyana »Atropurpurea»a thornless evergreen tree that will undoubtedly make its owner enjoy its very high ornamental value and its low maintenance, in addition to its multiple uses in gardening.
Its rapid growth and its rusticity make it an ideal option to have in any garden, or even in a pot.
The purple Acacia is a small tree, which does not usually exceed eight meters in height. Its foliage is semi-pendulous, that is, it falls almost like a cascade, with the branches slightly arched downwards. Bipinnate leaves, purple-reddish in color when young, and more purple as they mature. It has no thorns.
The trunk is not very thick, it can reach a diameter of 30cm, which makes it ideal for gardens with little space.
The inflorescence resembles a tiny ballerina pompomswhich is bright yellow. It blooms in winter, and if its flowers are pollinated, they will begin to create the fruit, which will be shaped like a green legume. The seeds will be ready in a matter of two months.
It resists without problems frosts of up to 5 degrees below zero, drought (especially if we talk about adult and acclimatized specimens) and does not usually have problems with pests or diseases.
In gardening the purple Acacia has several uses:
- As a hedge. With correct pruning we can make a nice windbreak hedge … or »hedge-wall».
- Isolated specimen. Due to its high ornamental value and its beautiful purple color, it will attract the attention of those who visit your garden.
- In groups. If we want to have a “purple nucleus”, we can plant several specimens together.
- Bonsai. By having the leaves so small, and being a fairly manageable and controllable plant, we can turn it into a beautiful bonsai.
Did you know this variety of Acacia bayleyana? How about?
More information – Albizia with a beautiful chocolate color
Image – antonucci, bozzanical