- Mature height
- 0.6m to 1m
- Mature width
- 0.6m to 1m
Acacia cognata 'Limelight' forms a soft cascading mound of fine lime-green foliage that holds its colour year round, giving movement and brightness in positions where a flowering plant would deliver for only a few weeks. It is one of the most widely used native accent plants in Australian design.
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'Limelight' is a genuine dwarf, reaching just 60 centimetres to 1 metre tall and wide at 20 to 40 centimetres per year, and holding a neat rounded bun shape without pruning. That compact scale suits mass planting along borders, underplanting beneath feature trees, and single specimens in decorative pots.
This Australian native grows in full sun to part shade and needs free-draining soil, performing poorly where drainage is impeded or humidity is high. It is frost sensitive, so in cold districts choose a protected position or grow it in a pot that can be moved.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Acacia cognata 'Limelight'
How big does Acacia cognata 'Limelight' grow?
'Limelight' is a dwarf cultivar reaching only 60 centimetres to 1 metre tall and wide. It is far smaller than the parent species Acacia cognata, which grows to several metres.
Does 'Limelight' need pruning?
No. It holds a neat rounded bun shape naturally. A light tip prune after the main growth flush keeps it tight, but never cut back hard into old wood.
Is 'Limelight' frost tolerant?
No. It is frost sensitive and may be damaged by frost. Choose a protected position in cold districts, or grow it in a pot that can be moved under cover.
Can 'Limelight' be grown in a pot?
Yes. Its compact cascading habit makes it an excellent pot specimen for entries and courtyards. Use a free-draining mix and never let the pot sit wet.
What soil does 'Limelight' need?
Free drainage is essential. It performs poorly in heavy or waterlogged soils and in humid conditions. Raised beds improve airflow and drainage where humidity is a problem.
How far apart should I plant 'Limelight' for mass planting?
Plant 60 to 80 centimetres apart for a continuous flowing lime-green mass. Closer spacing fills in faster but the mounds will merge within a few seasons.
Is 'Limelight' an Australian native?
Yes. Acacia cognata is an Australian native and 'Limelight' is a dwarf cultivar selected for its bright lime foliage and compact mounding habit.