If you have ever wondered where the name Whitchetty Grub comes from, or where it is found, this wattle tree from inland Australia has the answeres.
Commonly called the Whitchetty Bush, Acacia kempeana is found widely in Australia’s arid zones.
A small to medium shrub that reaches around 3 metres in height it grows in areas including Uluru through to the Pilbara.
The roots of these plants attract the Wood Moth (‘witjuri) which lays its eggs in the soil and the these hatch to give the Whitchetty Grub that is well known as a traditional bush tucker food. The grubs are attracted to the sap in the roots of the plant.
The grubs are harvested by selective digging to find the swollen roots that harbour the grubs.
Summary Information
- Botanical Name – Acacia kempeana
- Common Names – Whitchetty Bush, Wanderrie wattle.
- Family – Fabaceae
- Soil – Well drained
- Position – Full Sun
- Flowers – Yellow
- Height – To 4 metres
- Spread – To around 3 metres
- Drought tolerant – Yes
- Frost tolerant – Yes