1 11 ]. J. Kotze 



Wattles (Acacia spp.) 



Foremost amongst the Wattles on account of its valuable 

 tanning bark stands the Black Wattle (Acacia decurrens var. 

 mollis). This tree was introduced from Australia some 50 years 

 ago and to-day approximately 312,000 acres c^re under Black 

 Wattle in the Union, of which approximately 240,000 acres 

 are in Natal and during 1919, 56,538 long tons of bark and 

 6,143 long tons of wattle extract, to an aggregate value of 

 £602,182, were exported. For its best development it requires 

 a cool, misty climate such as is found in the mist belt of South 

 Africa and a deep soil such as the extensive red or chocolate 

 soils of Natal derived from the disintegration of dolerite. It 

 also flourishes on any medium, well-drained loam with a rainfall 

 of from 30 to 40 inches but is tender to frost and severe heat. 

 Although the mist belt of the Natal midlands has been found the 

 most suitable to the cultivation of the Black Wattle, there are 

 many districts in the Cape Province where it also does well, such 

 as in the neighbourhood of George, King William's Town. 

 Stutterheim and in the Transkei and Griqualand East. 



Wattle cultivation is very popular amongst private individuals 

 and companies owing to the short rotation (7 to 12 years) on 

 which it is possible to grow the crop, but sight must not be lost 

 of the fact that in order to make it a profitable undertaking, 

 besides a suitable soil and climate, proximity to rail and a port 

 of export and a good supply of cheap labour are essential. In 

 all these respects Natal is most favourably situated. 



Acacia decurrens var. dealbata (Silver Wattle). This wattle 

 yields a bark of much lower tanning value and is of little 

 value on that account. It is hardier against frost than the 

 Black Wattle and should be tried only where black wattle 

 will not grow. 



Acacia decurrens var. normalis (Green Wattle). Closely re- 

 sembles the Black Wattle but is of a more erect habit and 

 its bark is also not so valuable. 



