Which tree is Australia’s national floral emblem?

Golden wattle, Acacia pycnantha, is Australia’s national floral emblem.

This small tree or shrub belongs to the enormous Acacia genus and is known for its bright yellow flower clusters and sickle-shaped phyllodes. It is native to southeastern Australia, where it grows in woodland, forest edges, and dry habitats.

Australia officially proclaimed the golden wattle as its national floral emblem in 1988. Its green and gold colors are also strongly associated with Australian national identity and are used by sporting teams and public institutions.

Golden wattle is sometimes confused with eucalyptus because eucalyptus is one of Australia’s best-known tree groups. Eucalyptus, however, is not the national floral emblem. Several other wattles occur across the country, but Acacia pycnantha specifically holds the official status.