Previously known as the Acacia sieberiana, the indigenous Paperbark tree is easily identified by its flattened crown with dense, spreading foliage and papery bark.

This beautifully shaped tree can grow to a height of 8 to 15 m and has fine, feathery, deep green foliage.  Evergreen or semi-deciduous in certain areas, the Paperbark is named for the texture of its bark.  It peels off in flattish strips, leaving the creamy tan to yellowish underbark which is very attractive.  During spring balls of cream to yellow coloured flowers appear in profusion and it has a sweet scent that attracts insects and birds alike.  Grey brown pods, containing seeds, follow in autumn and ripen on the tree.  The pods have a musky scent and livestock and game will happily graze on the fallen pods.

The Paperbark sometimes produce paired, white thorns which are joined at the base and grow to a length of 100mm.  Semi- hardy, this fast grower thrives in dry areas and is moderately resistant to frost.  The tree is ideal for street planting as it provides light shade, but will also act as a specimen tree in a larger garden.  It is advisable to plant the tree where plenty space is available as the canopy can extend widely.

A true ‘African’ tree, Vachellia sieberiana is a good specimen for a big garden where you want to attract local bird life.