Manna wattle, Gum Wattle
It is a temperate plant. A native of south west Western Australia. It occurs in sandy loams. It needs well drained sites. It prefers open sunny positions. It is drought resistant. It could be damaged by frost.
Edible Portion
- Seeds, Gum
Where does Manna wattle grow?
Found in: Australia
Notes: There are about 1,350 Acacia species. Over 1,000 occur in Australia. Also as Mimosaceae.
Growing Manna wattle, Gum Wattle
Cultivation: It is grown from seed. The seed need treatment to break the hard seed coat. Normally this is by putting the seeds in very hot water and letting the water cool down overnight then planting the seeds immediately.
Edible Uses: The seeds are pounded to make flour which is cooked in dampers. The gum is sweet and edible.
Production: It is fast growing in warmer areas. The tree produces large quantities of edible gum in dry seasons. It can be stored for later use. The tree flowers in April to September. It does best with a rainfall over 38 mm.
Nutrition Info
per 100g edible portion| Edible Part | Energy (kcal) | Protein (g) | Iron (mg) | Vitamin A (ug) | Vitamin c (mg) | Zinc (mg) | % Water |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seed | - | - | - | - | - | - | |
| Gum | - | - | - | - | - | - |
References
Bindon, P., 1996, Useful Bush Plants. Western Australian Museum. p 22
Bodkin, F., 1991, Encyclopedia Botanica. Cornstalk publishing, p 25
Elliot, W.R., & Jones, D.L., 1982, Encyclopedia of Australian Plants suitable for cultivation. Vol 2. Lothian. p 84
Hall, N. et al, 1972, The Use of Trees and Shrubs in the Dry Country of Australia, AGPS, Canberra. p 348
Lazarides, M. & Hince, B., 1993, Handbook of Economic Plants of Australia, CSIRO. p 5
London J. Bot. 1:353. 1842
Paczkowska, G . & Chapman, A.R., 2000, The Western Australian Flora. A Descriptive Catalogue. Western Australian Herbarium. p 316