Rainbow Cootamundra Wattle

Rainbow Cootamundra Wattle (Acacia baileyana 'Rainbow') is a medium native shrub that grows about 2m tall and 2m wide. Its foliage shifts through the seasons from green to yellow and then deep burgundy, and from winter into spring it carries masses of bright yellow flowers. It is a feature plant with year round interest.

Why you'll love it

• Foliage that changes colour. Leaves move through green, yellow and deep burgundy with the seasons, so the shrub looks different through the year.
• Winter and spring flowers. Bright yellow pompoms cover the plant from winter into spring.
• Frost hardy and drought tolerant. Once established it is reliable in dry gardens and low rainfall areas.
• Low maintenance. After the first months it needs little care, and it responds well to pruning when you want to shape it.
• Cut stems for indoors. The branches you prune make good decoration inside the house.

Where it works best

Focal point. Plant it as a single feature in a front garden, where the colour change can be seen from the house. Allow 2m on every side.

Mixed native borders. Set it among green-leaved natives, where its yellow and burgundy foliage gives welcome contrast.

Cut branches and indoor decoration. Prune it after flowering and bring the branches inside for arrangements.

Growing Rainbow Cootamundra Wattle in Australia

Position and climate. Full sun in a well drained spot, with room to reach its full 2m by 2m. It is frost hardy and drought tolerant, so it suits warm temperate, cool temperate, Mediterranean and dry inland gardens. Young plants should be protected from frost.

Soil. Well drained soil is the key requirement. Plant in a sunny, open spot and avoid low areas where water collects.

Water and feed. Mulch and water regularly until the plant is established, usually about 12 weeks. After that it manages happily in dry gardens and low rainfall areas. Follow pruning with a slow release native fertiliser to keep the growth healthy.

Pruning. It responds well to pruning. Prune after flowering to shape it and keep it bushy, and use the cuttings for indoor decoration. Wattles are relatively short-lived, so plan for a replacement in time.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Rainbow Cootamundra Wattle as tube stock, a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly. Because tube stock comes from our grower, it is not always available. A sold out tube simply means the grower has none today, and the notify button on the page emails you the day it is back. Expect a small young shrub, with the colour display building as it grows.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Acacia care guide for growing wattles in Australia
• Browse the wattle range
• More Australian native shrubs
• Drought tolerant plants

Common questions

How big does Rainbow grow?

About 2m tall and 2m wide, which is much smaller than the common Cootamundra wattle, so it suits a smaller garden.

When does the foliage change colour?

It shifts gradually through the seasons from green to yellow to deep burgundy. Expect the change to be slow rather than sudden.

Does it need frost protection?

Young plants do. Once established it is frost hardy, but cover or mulch a small plant during its first winters.