Description
Acacia baileyana ‘Purpurea’ seeds are used to grow the “Purple Cootamundra Wattle,” a small, fast-growing evergreen tree known for its striking foliage. The tree’s delicate, fern-like leaves are a silvery-blue-grey color, but new growth is a beautiful purple or burgundy, providing year-round visual interest. In late winter to early spring, the tree produces an abundance of fragrant, golden-yellow, puffball-like flowers.
The seeds themselves are small and black. To ensure successful germination, they require a specific pre-sowing treatment, most commonly scarification or immersion in hot/boiling water for 24 hours to break their dormancy. This treatment causes the seeds to swell, a sign that they are ready for planting. They are best sown in a well-draining soil mix in a warm, bright location.
Germination Guide
🌍 New South Wales, Australia (endemic to Cootamundra, Stockinbingal and Temora district)
Easy
Acacia baileyana, commonly known as Cootamundra wattle or golden mimosa, is a fast-growing evergreen shrub or small tree native to southeastern New South Wales, Australia. The species has hard-coated seeds that evolved to germinate in response to fire, requiring hot water treatment to break dormancy. With proper seed scarification, germination is rapid and reliable, typically occurring within 4-30 days.
Germination
Germination time
Expect germination in
4 – 30 days
Temperature
Min 18°C
Ideal 20°C
Max 25°C
Substrate moisture
💧 Medium
Sowing depth
Lightly covered
Seed Pre-treatment
-
💧
Soaking — 24 hours
Soak seeds in hot water (boiling water allowed to cool) for 24 hours after initial hot water scarification treatment. Some sources recommend 24-48 hours soaking.
-
🔨
Hot water scarification
Pour boiling water directly over the seeds and allow them to cool and soak for 24 hours. Seeds may also be mechanically scarified before hot water treatment if desired. Repeat the process for any seeds that have not absorbed water.
-
📋
Additional notes
The hard seed coat requires treatment to break dormancy. Hot water scarification is the most reliable method.
Substrate & Container
Recommended substrate
Well-draining seed compost or loam-based potting mix
Recommended container
Seed trays or small pots (8cm recommended after first true leaves appear)
Growing Tips
Use fresh seeds whenever possible for optimal germination rates. Ensure seeds are viable by floating test before treatment (discard floating seeds). Do not let seedlings dry out but avoid waterlogging to prevent damping off. Provide semi-shade for young seedlings. If hot water treatment fails to achieve water absorption and seed swelling, sulfuric acid treatment may be necessary as an alternative. Transplant seedlings once they develop two sets of true leaves.
Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.