wattleseed
Wattle or Acacia is a genus of shrubs and trees of Gondwanian origin. Australian species are usually called wattles. The leaves of acacias are compound pinnate in general. In some species, however, more especially in the Australian and Pacific islands species, the leaflets are suppressed, and the leaf-stalks become vertically flattened, and serve the purpose of leaves. The small flowers have five very small petals, almost hidden by the long stamens, and are arranged in dense rounded or elongated clusters; they are yellow in most species, whitish in some. The plants often bear spines, especially those growing in arid regions. There are only a small number of edible wattles, the others being poisonous, therefore the gathering of one’s own Wattleseed should only be conducted under expert guidance. The Wattle seed of culinary use is always roasted and ground, a process that gives it an appetizing coffee-like aroma and taste. Seeds are usually high in proteins, carbohydrates and fats.