National Floral Emblem Description
The golden wattle, Acacia pycnantha Benth, was proclaimed the official national floral emblem in August 1988.
The golden wattle is a spreading shrub or small tree which grows in the understorey of open forest, woodland and in open scrub in South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory.
In 1912, on the recommendation of the Prime Minister, the Hon. Andrew Fisher, MP, wattle was included as the decoration surrounding the Commonwealth Coat of Arms and it has also been used in the design of Australian stamps and many awards in the Australian honours system.
In 1912, on the recommendation of the Prime Minister, the Hon. Andrew Fisher, MP, wattle was included as the decoration surrounding the Commonwealth Coat of Arms and it has also been used in the design of Australian stamps and many awards in the Australian honours system.
On the recommendation of the Government, on 23 June 1992 the Governor General proclaimed that 1 September in each year be observed as National Wattle Day. National Wattle Day provides an opportunity for all Australians to celebrate our floral heritage, particularly through the planting of an Acacia species suitable for the area in which they live.
