Acacia Cognata 'Fettuccini'

Fettuccini Wattle / River Wattle / Bower Wattle

Botanical Name: Acacia cognata ‘Fettuccini’ (PBR)
Family: Fabaceae
Origin: Australia
Plant Type: Evergreen compact shrub

Overview

Acacia cognata ‘Fettuccini’ forms a dense, mounded shrub with uniquely rippled, lime-green phyllodes; fresh tips flush coppery before greening up. In spring, small pale-yellow pom-pom flowers may appear, but the year-round foliage is the star. Ideal for low hedges, edging, mass planting, and containers in SA’s temperate/Mediterranean gardens.

Key Features

• Mature Size: 0.75-1 m H x 1-1.2 m W
• Growth Rate: 18-25 cm per year under good conditions
• Foliage: Rippled, narrow phyllodes; coppery new growth to lime-green
• Flowers: Small pale-yellow balls in spring (light display); lightly fragrant
• Seasonal Interest: Coppery flushes on new growth; fresh lime foliage year-round.
• Wildlife Value: Spring nectar/pollen for insects
• Tolerance: Drought-tolerant once established; heat and light frost hardy; prefers well-drained loam or sandy loam; avoid waterlogging.
• Planting Density: Low hedge ~3/m (60 cm centres); mass/border 60–100 cm
• Pet Friendly: Non-toxic to cats & dogs; as with any plant, eating seed pods, bark or large amounts of foliage may cause mild tummy upset—discourage chewing.

Where It Works Best

• Sunlight: Full sun to part shade
• Soil: Free-draining; not suited to boggy sites
• Water Needs: Establishment: 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks (1/week in cool weather). Established (in-ground): deep soak every 2–3 weeks in summer (weekly during heatwaves); rarely in winter—only if the soil is dry. Avoid waterlogging.
• Maintenance: Light trim after flowering if needed; avoid heavy cuts into old wood; mulch in spring.
• Lifespan: 10-20 years
• Climate Zones: Suited to temperate and Mediterranean SA gardens, including coastal areas
• Soil pH: Neutral (tolerates slight alkalinity)

Landscape & Design Ideas

• Low hedges and edging
• Mass plant for textural ground-level structure
• Feature in pots/containers
• Contemporary/native gardens

Why You Will Love It

A tidy, modern native with show-stopping foliage and minimal upkeep — perfect for adding instant texture and colour contrast.