SPECIES: Acacia aphylla — Leafless Rock Wattle
CLASSIFICATION: Vulnerable
Tough, spiky and leafless by design, Leafless Rock Wattle is unlike any other wattle. Native to the rocky outcrops of the Darling Range in Western Australia, this rare shrub has evolved to survive extreme conditions. With no true leaves, it photosynthesises through its upright blue-green stems, a clever adaptation to reduce moisture loss in its dry, harsh environment. It can grow up to 3 metres tall, forming a dense, tangled thicket of rigid stems tipped with sharp points – offering shelter for small wildlife and a striking presence in the landscape. In late winter to spring, it bursts into colour with bright yellow, ball-shaped flowers that attract pollinators and stand out vividly against the stony terrain.
But this unique species is under serious threat. With a naturally restricted range, Leafless Rock Wattle is highly vulnerable to habitat loss, inappropriate fire regimes, mining activity, weed invasion and infrastructure development. Any disturbance to its small, isolated populations puts it at risk of disappearing entirely.