Acacia trees are one of those charismatic garden delights that adds a touch of the exotic to any British border. With its feathery, fern-like foliage and soft, powder-puff blooms, it's a tree that brings both elegance and a hint of the Mediterranean to your garden. When in flower, typically in late spring or early summer, it puts on a display that would rival even the most flamboyant show-off in the Chelsea Flower Show. The lightly scented blossoms are not just easy on the eye – they’re also a magnet for pollinators, bringing a lovely hum of life to your outdoor space.

While some acacias can be a little tender in our cooler climes, the hardier varieties, such as Acacia dealbata (Silver Wattle), can thrive in sheltered, sunny spots – particularly along the southern coast or in urban microclimates. They’re ideal for gardeners looking for a fast-growing, low-maintenance tree that doesn’t mind a bit of dry soil and will repay you with architectural grace and year-round interest. Plant it with a sense of occasion – perhaps near a patio or as a statement piece on the lawn – and it will reward you handsomely. Just remember to give it room to spread and a little protection from harsh winter winds, and it will be a talking point for years to come.