Acacia redolens aka Bank Catclaw

Acacia redolens is an evergreen shrub in the pea family, Fabaceae. Its common names include prostrate acacia and black cat claw. It comes from the coast of southwestern Australia. There, it grows beside salt lakes and on salty or alkaline ground. Kew places its native range in southern Western Australia. It grows in a subtropical climate.

This woody shrub spreads out through dense branches. Mature plants can reach 6 feet [1.83 metres] tall. They can spread to 20 feet [6.1 metres] wide. Its broad shape suits sites with room for outward growth. The leaf-like parts are phyllodes, which are modified leaf stems. Their shape ranges from lanceolate to narrow and oval. They reach about 0.17 feet [0.05 metres] long. Their width reaches about 0.04 feet [0.013 metres]. The foliage stays on the plant through the year. Missouri Botanical Garden also lists the foliage as fragrant.

Small yellow flowers form round heads along the stems. Each head holds about 20 to 30 tiny flowers. These heads grow from the axils of the phyllodes. Missouri Botanical Garden gives the bloom season as April to May. The flowers add spring colour above the spreading growth. The supplied account mentions fruit after flowering but lacks full details. It gives no evidence for edible parts or safe consumption.

Grow this shrub in full sun and well-drained soil. Sandy clay and loam both suit it. It also grows in poor, alkaline, or salty soil. Dry soil suits it, though it can take moderate moisture. Good drainage remains important when the soil holds more water. Established plants cope with both heat and drought. In desert gardens, summer watering can boost growth and vigour. Missouri Botanical Garden rates it hardy in USDA zones 9–11. It describes the plant as easy to grow with little upkeep.

Use it as a tall ground cover or on slopes. It also suits berms, rock gardens, and gardens with little irrigation. Its spreading growth can help limit soil erosion. It tolerates dry ground and shallow, rocky soil. Avoid heavy pruning, since the plant responds poorly to it. Light pruning can follow flowering in spring. Missouri Botanical Garden reports no major pest or disease concerns. Wet soil and poor drainage can cause root or crown rot. These risks make drainage a key part of site choice.