Albizia julibrissin seed
Hardy, Adaptable, Fast Growth, Easy to Grow, Showy Fragrant Flowering Tree, , Attracts Hummingbirds, Bees and Butterflies, Wildlife Food/Shelter, Heat Tolerant
Native to Asia (Iran to Japan), Mimosa or Silk Tree is a fast growing, small to medium sized deciduous tree that typically grows in a vase shape to 20 to 40 feet tall with a spreading, flattened, often umbrella-like crown. It is noted for its bipinnate compound dark green leaves (to 20” long) which have a delicate, lacy, fern like appearance, (Sensitive leaflets close up when touched and at night). Silky, pink puffy pompom blooms, two inches in diameter, appear in abundance from late June to September creating a spectacular sight for a long summer bloom. Flowers are fragrant and are very attractive to Butterflies, Bees and Hummingbirds. Flowers give way to flat bean like pods to 7 inches long, which persist into winter. Leaflets fall to the ground after frost, producing no fall color.
Although rather short-lived (10 to 20 years), Mimosa is popular for use as a terrace or patio tree for its light, dappled shade and tropical effect. Its deciduous nature allows the warming sun to penetrate during the winter. The bark or cortex is used to cure bruises and as a vermicide. The seeds are used as a food for livestock and wildlife. Genus name honors Filippo degi Albizzia who introduced the genus to Italy in 1749.
Uses: Popular for use as a terrace or patio tree for its light, dappled shade and tropical effect.