Witchetty Bush and Wanderrie Wattle
If you have ever wondered where the name Witchetty Grub comes from or where it is found, this wattle tree from inland Australia has the answers.
Commonly called the Witchetty Bush, Acacia kempeana is found widely in Australia’s arid zones.
A small to medium shrub that reaches around 3m in height, it grows in areas including Uluru through to the Pilbara.
The roots of these plants attract the Wood Moth (Witjuri Grub Moth), which lays its eggs in the soil. The eggs hatch to give the Witchetty Grub, which 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 – Witchetty Bush and Wanderrie Wattle
- Family – Fabaceae
- Soil – Well drained
- Position – Full Sun
- Flowers – Yellow
- Height – To 4m
- Spread – To around 3m
- Drought tolerant – Yes
- Frost tolerant – Yes