Abstract

The Forestry Institute since its creation has developed research on species of the Acacia genus. At the beginning of the 60s of the last century, programs for the introduction of forest species to the country were initiated, in which many of them brought from Australia were included. Over the years, species of the genus such as Acacia dealbata Link., Acacia melanoxylon R. Br. and Acacia mearnsii D. Wild have shown a very good adaptation and development. In more recent years INFOR has carried out different investigations oriented to its silviculture and management and to define the physical and mechanical properties of its wood and its aptitude for use, to later address a strong diffusion and technological transfer program oriented to make known the experiences and research results, especially focused on small and medium forest owners and small and medium wood industries. The general conclusion is that these species show rapid growth in different areas of the country, including marginal areas for the development of species traditionally used in plantations, such as Radiata Pine and Eucalypts, and that the properties of their woods make them suitable and attractive for a variety of uses.