Acacia
Common Names: Acacia, Mimosa, Wattle
Botanical names: Acacia (a-KAY-sha)
Availability: October through March
Vase life: 4 - 5 days
Storage temperatures: 34 to 36 degrees Fahrenheit
Ethylene Sensitive: Yes
Description: Trees or shrubs with fluffy, ball-shaped clusters of small, delicate, fragrant, flowers without petals and delicate, gray-green fringe cut leaves.
Color: Bright golden yellow to pale cream.
Botanical facts: The name comes from the Greek word akis (sharp point) referring to the thorns.
Design notes: The fine, airy texture of Acacia flowers contrasts beautifully with larger, more structured blooms. This contrast adds depth and interest to the arrangement. The natural, branching habit of Acacia stems can help create movement within an arrangement. Acacia flowers can serve as an excellent filler due to their small size and the way they grow in clusters.
Purchasing hints: Buy branches when the blossoms are brightly colored and very fuzzy. Cut flowers lose their fuzzy appearance as they age. Avoid blossoms with brown spots.
Conditioning: Break branch ends or cut with pruners and whittle bark with sharp knife. Hydrate in a solution of water and commercial floral preservative before storage or usage.
Additional notes: Pollen can cause an allergic reaction with some people.
Video Demonstration: