Albizia julibrissin

Mimosa or Silktree

lbizia julibrissin, commonly known as Silk Tree or Mimosa, is a fast-growing ornamental shade tree valued for its fern-like foliage, showy pink summer flowers, and broad, umbrella-shaped canopy. It creates a light, airy presence in the landscape and delivers strong ornamental impact during bloom.

Key Characteristics and Benefits


Flowers & Color: Fluffy, silk-like pink flowers with prominent stamens bloom in early to mid-summer, attracting pollinators.



Foliage: Finely divided, feathery green leaves provide a tropical texture and filtered shade.



Growth Habit: Broad, spreading, umbrella-like canopy with an open structure.



Growth Rate: Fast-growing, establishing quickly in suitable sites.



Size: Typically reaches 30–40 ft tall with a 30–50 ft spread.



Care and Requirements


Hardiness: USDA Zones 6–9



Light: Full sun



Soil: Adaptable to many soil types; prefers well-drained soil



Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established



Maintenance: Low to moderate; prune as needed for structure



Tolerance: Excellent tolerance of heat, drought, and poor soils



Note: Can self-seed and be invasive in some regions; check local recommendations before planting



Summary:
Silk Tree is best suited for ornamental landscapes, large lawns, and naturalized settings where its summer flowers, airy canopy, and rapid growth can be appreciated and managed appropriately.

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Shade Tree

Height

30-40'

Width

40-50'

Hardiness zones

7–9

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Early Summer, Late Summer, Summer

Flower color

Pink

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Yellow

Fruit color

Pink

Attracts

Butterflies, Hummingbirds

Soil

Loamy well-drained

Shape

Spreading

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Salt tolerant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No