- Botanical name: Albizia julibrissin
- Common name: Persian silk tree
- Family: Fabeaceae
- Plant Type: Tree, Deciduous
Pink
Green
- Key features:
- Attractive to wildlife
- Flowers
Albizia julibrissin (known as Persian silk tree or mimosa) is native to Asia but was introduced to the United States in the 18th Century, where it’s commonly grown. It has fragrant, bottlebrush pink-white flowers, and fern-like leaves. Hardy throughout the UK, it makes an excellent tree for a sheltered, sunny spot, although it does take a while to come into growth in spring. In cold winters some newer parts of the tree can be susceptible to frost damage, but these can be pruned out with little or no impact on the tree itself.
Grow Albizia julibrissin in well-drained soil in a sheltered spot in full sun. Prune out frost-damaged growth in spring.
Is Albizia the same as mimosa?
Several plants are known as mimosa. These include the sensitive plant, Mimosa pudica, as well as Acacia dealbata, which is most commonly called mimosa. Albizia julibrissin is often called mimosa, particularly in the United States. All three plants have similar leaves.
Advice on buying Albizia julibrissin
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- Albizia julibrissin takes a while to come ino growth in spring, so isn’t the best choice for a small garden
- You may find Albizia julibrissin at a garden centre or nursery, but you’ll have a greater vareity of sizes by shopping online
- Always check plants for signs of disease or damage before planting
Where to buy Albizia julibrissin
How to grow Albizia julibrissin
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Plant size
8m height
4m spread
-
Aspect
South facing, west facing
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Position in border
Middle, back
- Sun exposure: Full sun
- Hardiness: Hardy
- Soil type: Acidic / chalky / alkaline / well drained / light / sandy
Albizia julibrissin and wildlife
Albizia julibrissin is known for attracting bees. It has nectar/pollen rich flowers.
Attractive to Bees
Does not attract Beneficial insects
Does not attract Birds
Does not attract Butterflies/Moths
Does not attract Other pollinators
Is Albizia julibrissin poisonous?
Albizia julibrissin has no toxic effects reported.
No reported toxicity to Birds
No reported toxicity to Cats
No reported toxicity to Dogs
No reported toxicity to Horses
No reported toxicity to Livestock
No reported toxicity to People
