Phyllodes

• Phyllodes are acacias with simple, undivided leaves. Some phyllodes have stipular spines while others do not. Acacia longifolia is an example of a phyllode. It is commonly used to create hedges. Acacia bakeri is a phyllode that can grow over a 100 feet. Phyllodes are predominantly found in Australia and the Pacific Islands.
  
  

Bipinnates

• Bipinnates have divided, fernlike leaves. Acacias with bipinnate leaves can be further subdivided into three groups. The first group has stem thorns, the second has stipular spines and the last has non-stipular spines. The African fever tree is an example of a bipinnate acacia with stipular spines. The cat's claw is a type of bipinnate acacia with thorns growing out of the bark. Bipinnates are mostly found in the Americas, Australia and Africa.
  
  

Heteroblasty

• Some Acacia trees have phyllodes and bipinnate leaves on the same tree. This phenomenon is called heteroblasty. The acacia koa, a tree that exhibits this property, is found in Hawaii and is known to be more resistant to droughts. Koa wood can be used for carving figurines.
  
  

Acacias Native to North America

• The Acacia farnesiana is native to North America and is used on streets and median strips due to its smaller stature. The Acacia wrightii is also native to North America and can be grown in containers or planters. It grows to a height of approximately 30 feet and can also be used on highway medians.