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Tree of
the Month
Mimosa Tree
Albizia
julibrissin
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Also known as
the Silk Tree, it is a fast growing,
deciduous small tree (up to 35' tall)
with an open, airy, umbrella-like
canopy. The trunk is smooth and the
branches arch gracefully. The leaves are
about a foot long, alternate, twice
compound and feather-like.
Each leaf has
a central rachis (leaf stem) with a
dozen or so side branches bearing the
half-inch leaflets. |
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The tiny
flowers are pink and arranged in
compound clusters about 6" across that
look like fluffy silk powder puffs.
Their fragrance fills the mid-summer air
and attracts honey bees. The flattened
seeds are held in pods, 4"-8" long and
an inch and a half wide. There are
several named cultivars differing mainly
in flower color. |
Location
There are over a hundred
species of Albizia, all native to Asia,
Africa or Australia. Originally from China,
this tree has been cultivated as an
ornamental in the southeastern United States
and Europe since the 18th century.
Culture
Light:
Best in full sun; tolerates partial shade.
Moisture: Drought tolerant.
Soil: Thrives in a wide range of soil
conditions, including alkaline soils.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 6-9. Withstands
total neglect, as evidenced by its
naturalization throughout the southeastern
U.S. from Washington D.C. to Florida.
Propagation: Seed, but the hard seat
coat requires scarification before
germination can occur. Nick the seed with a
file, soak it in sulfuric acid, or plunge it
into boiling water.
Usage
Silk tree makes a beautiful
lawn accent. The graceful, leafy canopy
permits enough light for grass to grow right
up to the trunk. Often planted (or volunteer
seedlings are encouraged) around homes,
decks, patios and porches where they provide
summertime shade without threatening the
roof.
Features
The open, airy canopy makes
silk trees highly wind-resistant, and they
never get big enough to cause damage if they
should break off. The leaflets fold up at
night, allowing heat to escape from the roof
or patio.
Please
e-mail us your favorite tree picture to
be considered for tree of the month or
favorite tree links. Send in JPG format. |
