Acacia smallii is a perennial evergreen shrub-like tree that belongs to the legume family, Fabaceae. A. smallii is commonly called sweet acacia and is native to northern Mexico and the southwest United States. The plant grows between 20 to 25 feet tall with smooth gray bark. Leaves are compounded and bipinnate with small oval-shaped leaflets. Thorns are found scattered along the stem of the plant. The late winter to spring blooming flowers are bright yellow and pom-pom shaped. Acacia smallii is grown as a medicinal and ornamental crop. Roots of the plant aid in alleviating a sore throat when chewed. Infusions of the flowers are used to alleviate stomach aches. Dried leaves may be used to treat external wounds when ground into a powder. The seed pods can be used to treat sore throats and diarrhea. The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade and in well-draining soils. Water adequately when the soil appears dry and allow it to dry out before watering again. USDA plant hardiness zone 7b to 11a.
Acacia smallii seeds require a scarification and heat bath pretreatment. Proper scarification can be achieved using a file or sandpaper to lightly damage the outside of the hard seed shell, be careful to not damage the seed embryo. Next bring water to a boil then take it off the heat for a few moments until boiling ceases. Immediately after the boiling stops, add the seeds to the water and let cool to room temperature. Let treated seeds soak in room temperature water for 24 to 36 hours prior to planting, changing water daily to avoid bacteria and fungal growth. Surface sow seeds and lightly cover with a thin layer of the potting mixture. Sown seeds require consistent moisture and humidity but the soil should not remain soaking wet. Soil should be moist and well-draining, kept between 60°F to 75°F. Germination typically takes 2 to 4 weeks to occur. Even with optimal conditions, germination may be slow and sporadic.
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