Albizia julibrissin

Silk Tree, Mimosa
Albizia julibrissa
Type: Deciduous Tree
Exposure: Sun / Part Shade
Water: Regular

This quick growing Asian native is most at home where summers are hot. Here in the Pacific Northwest, they do best in a spot where they get lots of sun. Usually a multi-stemmed tree with a spreading flat canopy, silk trees have bright green, delicate-looking ferny foliage which  produces a light shade. The leaves are light sensitive, and close at night. They make great patio trees, although some consider them too messy. They are also very effective where they can be viewed from above. Summertime brings decadent, pink powderpuff blossoms that appear even on young plants, giving way to seed pods that persist into winter. In time this tree can get to 40ft (12m) high by 50ft (15m). It is considered invasive by some living in the southern states.

Note: There are a few varieties available, including a burgundy-leaved one (Albizia julibrissin “Summer Chocolate”)

Cheers,

John